Charlotte, North Carolina — Federal immigration agents swept through the city of Charlotte on Saturday as part of President Donald Trump’s escalating nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the launch of “Operation Charlotte’s Web,” resulting in at least 81 arrests in a single day.
In an announcement posted on X, Gregory Bovino, a senior US Customs and Border Patrol commander, said the operation was aimed at removing “criminal illegal aliens” from the Democratic-run city.
Heavy Federal Presence Sparks Local Alarm
Local officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, condemned the surprise operation, saying it has caused “unnecessary fear and uncertainty” among immigrant communities. Several community members described chaotic scenes as heavily armed federal agents descended on neighborhoods.
According to The Charlotte Observer, a group of church members performing yard work at an east Charlotte congregation fled into nearby woods when agents arrived. One man was detained. “We thought church was safe and nothing was going to happen,” said a 15-year-old witness.
Internal federal documents obtained by CBS News suggest the operation may include armoured vehicles, special operations units, and tactical equipment more commonly seen in military-style deployments.
Part of Trump’s Promise of Largest Deportation Program in US History
Since returning to office, President Trump has directed DHS to stage aggressive immigration sweeps in major cities, including Washington DC, Los Angeles, and Chicago. These actions form part of his pledge to carry out “the largest deportation programme” in American history.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the Charlotte operation, saying:
“We are surging DHS law enforcement to Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed.”
DHS claims North Carolina has failed to honour nearly 1,400 Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainers, allowing individuals with deportation orders to be released under what they described as “sanctuary policies.”
However, Charlotte is not a sanctuary city. It is instead designated a “Certified Welcoming City,” meaning it publicly supports immigrant inclusion but does not restrict cooperation with federal enforcement.
Community, Officials Express Concern
Democratic Congresswoman Alma Adams, who represents the area, said she was notified of the raid and is “extremely concerned” about Border Patrol and ICE deployment in North Carolina.
Local advocacy groups say they are preparing to offer emergency legal support, advising residents about their rights during federal encounters.
Charlotte is one of the most diverse cities in the state, with approximately 17% of residents foreign-born, according to Data USA.
Raids Expected to Expand Nationally
DHS has not indicated how long the Charlotte operation will last. The federal crackdown in Chicago, launched in September, is still underway nearly two months later.
According to CBS News, the next targeted city is New Orleans, where as many as 200 federal agents are expected to be deployed.
Previous operations in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles have sparked criticism and legal challenges over the use of force, including reports of masked agents, tear gas, and mass detentions.
As Operation Charlotte’s Web continues, local leaders warn the city’s immigrant population remains on edge, unsure of when — or where — federal agents will strike next.