US launches major raids to crack down on illegal immigration
Photo: migrants in the US (Getty Images)
Federal agencies in the United States carried out large-scale raids on banks in Charlotte, expanding efforts to combat illegal immigration and sparking concern among residents, according to Reuters.
Federal law enforcement agencies in the United States launched operations at bank centers in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday. The actions aim to strengthen control over illegal immigration and improve public safety.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said the agency is increasing its presence in the city "to ensure the safety of Americans and remove threats to public safety."
Details of the operation, including the number of personnel involved or people detained, have not been disclosed.
Local response
City officials urged residents to seek support if needed, including through the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
"There are a number of organizations standing ready to assist individuals seeking legal guidance on immigration matters," the city officials said in a statement.
Witnesses reported fear and uncertainty among the local population, noting that similar actions in other cities have resulted in arrests of people with no criminal records.
Political context
President Donald Trump has prioritized increasing arrests of migrants in cities with Democratic leadership, including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington. Local officials in Charlotte were notified in advance of the operation, which began Saturday.
Representative Alma Adams of the Democratic Party expressed concern:
"The immigrant community of Charlotte is a proud part of the Queen City, and I refuse to stand by while my constituents are intimidated or targeted."
In response, Gregory Bovino of US Customs and Border Protection said Adams and the governor of North Carolina must "learn the distinction between an illegal alien and an immigrant," emphasizing the federal stance on migration control.
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency intends to deport more than 600,000 undocumented migrants by the end of 2025 under the Trump administration’s policies.
The administration has also approved new visa rules that allow denials for foreign nationals with cancer, chronic diseases, or obesity.
