Savannah: U.S. authorities have confirmed a significant immigration enforcement operation at a South Korean electric vehicle (EV) battery plant construction site in Georgia, resulting in the arrest of 475 individuals, predominantly South Korean nationals. This operation marks a major effort in cracking down on unlawful employment practices.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Steven Schrank, special agent in charge of Homeland Security investigations for Georgia, announced the arrests during a press conference following the raid at the site operated by Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution Ltd. in Bryan County. Homeland Security Investigations, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, executed a search warrant as part of a criminal investigation into allegations of serious federal crimes and unlawful employment practices.
"The investigation resulted in the arrest of 475 individuals and is focused on ensuring accountability for those who violate the law, and upholding the rule of law," Schrank stated. A diplomatic source in Seoul revealed that over 300 of those arrested are South Korean nationals. The individuals were reportedly illegally present in the United States, with some having crossed the border unlawfully, others violating visa waiver program rules, and some overstaying their visas.
Those apprehended include subcontractors from various companies, and they are currently in the custody of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations. Most of the arrested individuals were initially taken to the Folkston Immigration Detention Center in Georgia, with further relocations based on individual circumstances.
Authorities reported no significant injuries during the operation, except for a minor incident involving overheating and a minor laceration to an agent. The raid is described as the largest single-site enforcement operation in the history of Homeland Security Investigations.
A press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia highlighted attempts by several individuals to flee the site, including an incident where some ran into a sewage pond and attempted to evade capture. These individuals were eventually apprehended and identified as unauthorized workers.
U.S. Attorney Margaret Heap emphasized that the operation aims to reduce illegal employment and prevent unfair advantages for employers hiring unauthorized workers, as well as protect these workers from exploitation. The office reiterated that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
In response, South Korea's foreign ministry expressed concern and regret over the raid, stressing that the rights of those involved must not be unfairly infringed upon.