Federal Immigration Operation Conducted in Charlotte, North Carolina

Federal agents have commenced an operation in Charlotte, North Carolina, identified by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as part of President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement initiatives. This operation resulted in 81 arrests on Saturday, according to a statement posted on X by US Customs and Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino.

Local officials, including Charlotte Mayor Li Vyles, issued a joint statement expressing criticism of the operation. The statement cited concerns about generating "unnecessary fear and uncertainty" within the community.

Context of Enforcement

This operation follows previous deployments of personnel to Washington D.C., Los Angeles, and Chicago since President Trump's return to office. These deployments align with the administration's stated objective to implement a significant deportation program.

DHS Statements and Scope

The DHS announced the operation, named "Operation Charlotte's Web," on Saturday. The agency stated that the operation's focus is on targeting "criminal illegal aliens" within the city. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin remarked, "We are surging DHS law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed."

Internal government documents, which were reviewed by CBS News, indicated the potential involvement of armored vehicles and special operations teams in the North Charlotte phase of the operation.