Federal authorities arrested a Somali American woman known online for the phrase bananas and rice as part of a broader enforcement operation targeting riot activity in Minneapolis. Nasra Ahmed, 23, was among 16 individuals accused of participating in a riot and impeding federal agents amid escalating unrest tied to immigration enforcement actions.
Ahmed gained national attention after a Jan. 21 news conference where she described Somali American identity using the phrase bananas and rice. “It’s kind of like bananas and rice,” Ahmed said. “People don’t think you can eat bananas with rice, but that’s what it’s like to be Somali and American.” The remark went viral and circulated widely across social media platforms.
Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrests Wednesday as federal enforcement intensified following repeated clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. “I am on the ground in Minneapolis today,” Bondi wrote on X. “Federal agents have arrested 16 Minnesota rioters for allegedly assaulting federal law enforcement — people who have been resisting and impeding our federal law enforcement rights.” She added, “NOTHING will stop President Trump and this Department of Justice from enforcing the law.”
Authorities released the names and images of those charged under a federal statute criminalizing assault or interference with federal officers. Ahmed was listed among the defendants.
The arrests follow weeks of unrest after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on Jan. 24 during federal immigration operations. Officials said confrontations have intensified, prompting a renewed focus on protecting federal agents during enforcement actions. Justice Department officials stated that additional arrests remain possible as investigations continue.
