Federal authorities have launched immigration enforcement operations in Charlotte, North Carolina, expanding the crackdown on undocumented immigration across the southern United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the raids, stating they aim to ensure public safety.
“We are deploying DHS law enforcement personnel to Charlotte to ensure the safety of Americans and remove threats to public safety,” said DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin in a statement. “Too many have fallen victim to illegal, criminal aliens.”
Details regarding the operation, including the number of law enforcement officers involved and the number of individuals detained, have not been released by DHS, which oversees Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and city commissioners urged residents to seek assistance from various resources, including the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, which is not involved in the federal raids. The city officials released a statement noting that several organizations stand ready to assist individuals seeking legal guidance on immigration matters.
The anticipated raids have reportedly sparked fear and uncertainty within the Charlotte community. Similar operations in other cities have resulted in the detention of individuals without criminal records, raising concerns among residents.
The current administration has focused on increasing immigration-related arrests in cities led by Democrats, with significant efforts undertaken in recent months in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.
Local leaders had previously been informed that a CBP operation would commence on Saturday. U.S. Representative Alma Adams, a Democrat, expressed her “grave concern” last Thursday regarding the arrival of Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel in Charlotte.
Border Patrol agents have previously assisted in Chicago, leading to an increase in immigration arrests. However, protesters and some residents have accused them of using excessive force, including deploying tear gas. DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation.
