Federal Agents Search Home of Representative Ilhan Omar in Immigration Fraud Probe

Homeland Security Investigations agents executed a judicially authorized search warrant at the Washington, D.C.-area home of Representative Ilhan Omar on 12 October 2026. The Department of Justice confirmed the action was part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. The search occurred less than a month before the midterm elections.

Sources familiar with the matter said the probe concerns alleged immigration fraud related to paperwork filed by Omar’s late father when she was a child. Omar, who was born in Somalia and is a US citizen, has represented Minnesota’s 5th District since 2019. She is an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump. The search began in the early morning hours. Neighbors reported activity around 4:30 a.m. Agents were observed removing boxes from the residence. The supporting affidavit remains sealed. A federal magistrate judge determined there was probable cause that evidence of a federal crime was located at the premises.

Omar responded on social media that she was okay and described the search as an attempt to target political enemies and weaponize federal law enforcement. She said Trump has targeted her with baseless claims for ten years and that she will not be silenced. House Democratic leaders called the action deeply disturbing and raised questions about the use of federal power so close to an election. Historically, the Justice Department has been cautious about investigative steps involving sitting members of Congress in the weeks before elections.

The Justice Department statement said Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant secured by the department as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation. Officials declined further comment. Vice President JD Vance had previously indicated that the administration intended to review allegations concerning Omar’s background and immigration history. Omar has consistently rejected those claims as meritless. Trump has publicly referred to her net worth and financial disclosures in the past.

The use of Homeland Security Investigations, rather than the FBI, for the search is notable. HSI is the primary investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. No charges have been filed. The precise scope of the warrant, beyond the reported focus on immigration paperwork, has not been made public. Omar is seeking a fifth term in November. Her district is heavily Democratic.

Searches of the homes of sitting members of Congress are rare but not unprecedented. The timing has drawn criticism from Democrats who argue it represents an escalation in political intimidation. Republican officials have not issued detailed public defenses of the specific search beyond general statements about enforcement of immigration laws. The investigation continues. No additional details on evidence seized or next steps have been released by the Justice Department.

Omar’s office has framed the action as the latest in a long-running campaign against her. The sealed nature of the affidavit limits public assessment of the underlying claims. Courts will ultimately determine whether any charges are warranted. The search itself does not constitute a finding of guilt.