Urgent: 475 Detained in Massive Immigration Raid at Hyundai Plant

URGENT UPDATE: In a sweeping immigration enforcement operation, federal agents have detained 475 individuals at a Hyundai manufacturing plant in Georgia. This unprecedented raid, conducted on Thursday, marks one of the largest workplace enforcement actions in U.S. history, specifically targeting a facility that plays a crucial role in the state’s economic landscape.

Authorities confirm that the operation involved hundreds of federal agents storming the site where Hyundai produces electric vehicles. Among those detained, the majority are reported to be South Korean nationals. This significant operation highlights concerns over illegal hiring practices at the plant, which is regarded as Georgia’s largest economic development project.

According to Steven Schrank, the lead agent for Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia, some of the detained individuals had entered the U.S. illegally, while others had overstayed their visas, or arrived under a visa waiver that prohibits employment. Immigration attorney Charles Kuck represents two detained workers who entered the U.S. legally for tourism but found themselves caught in this massive sweep.

The raid, stemming from a months-long investigation, targeted not only the Hyundai plant but also its adjacent battery production site, a joint venture with LG Energy Solution. Court documents indicate that the investigation is ongoing, with officials seeking records and evidence of illegal hiring practices.

Most detainees have been taken to an immigration center in Folkston, Georgia. As of now, none have been charged with crimes, but the situation remains fluid with further developments expected.

The South Korean government has expressed “concern and regret” over the detainment of its nationals and has dispatched diplomats to the scene. In a statement, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lee Jaewoong emphasized that the rights of their nationals should not be compromised during U.S. law enforcement operations.

Local reactions have been mixed. Business owners and residents are anxious about the economic impact, with some fearing a decline in community ties. “I’m concerned. Koreans are very proud people, and I bet they’re not appreciating what just happened,” said Sammie Rentz, owner of a supermarket near the plant.

Georgia officials, including Governor Brian Kemp, have reiterated that all employers must adhere to U.S. labor laws. In contrast, local advocacy groups like Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta have condemned the raid as “unacceptable,” stressing that the targeted workers are integral to their communities.

As the investigation unfolds, the implications are profound, not just for the individuals detained but also for the broader community and the future of immigration enforcement in the U.S. The situation remains developing, and all eyes are on the ongoing responses from both local and national authorities.

Stay tuned for further updates on this critical story that impacts many families and the economic fabric of Georgia.