A federal crime initiative under President Trump’s leadership resulted in 68 arrests in a single night in Washington, D.C., as part of a renewed effort to clean up the nation’s capital. The operation, launched earlier this month, has already removed over 300 suspects, including illegal immigrants, drug traffickers, and violent offenders.
The mass arrest occurred on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Charges included aggravated assault, assault on a police officer, resisting arrest, possession of a controlled substance, fleeing law enforcement, and multiple firearms violations. Officials reported the seizure of 15 illegal guns during the operation.
The White House credited the success to the president’s directive to restore law and order in the city. Since the crackdown began on August 7, 2025, authorities have made 308 arrests. This includes 135 illegal immigrants alleged to have ties to gang activity or violent crimes.
In addition to the arrests, three homeless encampments were removed from public areas. According to the White House, the clearings were conducted peacefully and without arrests. A spokesperson described the cleanups as “intentional” and aimed at restoring dignity and safety to public spaces in the capital.
Attorney General Pam Bondi praised law enforcement’s efforts, highlighting the arrests of homicide suspects and drug traffickers. In a statement, Bondi reaffirmed the administration’s support for local and federal officers and their mission to make Washington, D.C., secure once again.
President Trump echoed that commitment, stating that the city would be reclaimed from “tents, squalor, filth, and crime.” He promised that Washington, D.C., would be restored to its historic status as “the most beautiful Capital in the world.”
The operation underscores a broader law-and-order strategy central to President Trump’s platform. With crime rates in major urban centers drawing national concern, the administration’s actions in Washington serve as a model for restoring public safety and upholding the rule of law.
