Super Bowl Security Without ICE Involvement

The NFL and federal law enforcement confirm no Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations around the Super Bowl. Security will see heightened federal presence, but ICE will not be included. Planning involves 35 agencies, and AI technology will assist in security efforts. Concerns regarding ICE stem from recent immigration policies.

On Tuesday, the NFL and federal law officials dispelled rumors regarding potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations during the Super Bowl game or its related events. NFL head of security Cathy Lanier assured that no ICE enforcement activities are scheduled around the grand event, echoing an earlier Reuters report during a San Francisco press conference.

Amid rising concerns ahead of the Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots matchup, Department of Homeland Security agent Jeffrey Brannigan clarified that the significant increase in federal law enforcement is meant to ensure Super Bowl security, excluding ICE efforts. Brannigan emphasized their strict role in supporting security, engaging a wide array of federal, state, and local agencies.

Highly anticipated changes to security strategies include the deployment of artificial intelligence technologies, which Lanier confirmed would enhance the collaborative security mission. Despite public apprehensions over recent immigration policies under President Donald Trump, particularly following two controversial incidents in Minnesota, the NFL maintains its focus on a secure, uninterrupted Super Bowl experience for 1.3 million expected attendees, featuring the likes of Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny in its halftime show.

(With inputs from agencies.)