Federal agents launch immigration crackdown in city of Charlotte

November 16, 2025

The Department of Homeland Security has launched "Operation Charlotte's Web" in Charlotte, North Carolina, deploying federal immigration agents who arrested at least 81 people on Saturday as part of President Trump's expanded deportation efforts. Local officials have condemned the operation for creating fear in the community, while federal authorities justify it by claiming North Carolina has released nearly 1,400 ICE detainees due to sanctuary policies, though Charlotte is not officially a sanctuary city. The operation involves armored vehicles and special operations teams, and incidents include agents detaining a man at a church where congregants fled in fear.

Who is affected

Residents of Charlotte, North Carolina, particularly the approximately 17% who were born outside the country
At least 81 people arrested on Saturday
Church members and congregants, including a man detained at a church in east Charlotte
Mayor Li Vyles and other local Charlotte officials
Nearly 1,400 Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainees previously released in North Carolina
US Representative Alma Adams (Democrat)
Americans living in cities targeted by these operations (Washington DC, Los Angeles, Chicago, and potentially New Orleans)

What action is being taken

Federal agents are conducting raids and arrests in Charlotte as part of "Operation Charlotte's Web"
Armored vehicles and special operations teams are being deployed for the operation
The Chicago crackdown that began in September is still ongoing
Organizations are standing ready to provide legal guidance on immigration matters to affected individuals

Why it matters

This operation represents a significant escalation of Trump's promised "largest deportation programme" in US history, directly impacting diverse communities where nearly one in five residents are foreign-born. The deployment of military-style resources like armored vehicles and special operations teams to conduct immigration enforcement in American cities marks an unprecedented approach that has sparked concerns about excessive force and civil liberties. The operations are creating tension between federal and local governments, as city officials argue the crackdowns generate unnecessary fear while federal authorities claim they're necessary to protect public safety when local jurisdictions don't cooperate with immigration enforcement.

What's next

New Orleans is set to be the next city targeted, with as many as 200 agents potentially deployed
Organizations will continue assisting individuals seeking legal guidance on immigration matters
The Charlotte operation will continue for an unspecified duration (DHS has not announced an end date)

Read full article from source: BBC