Federal officials confirmed Saturday that an active immigration enforcement operation is taking place across the Charlotte region, drawing immediate scrutiny from local residents and community organizations.
According to a statement from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, teams from both the Border Patrol and the Office of Field Operations are conducting enforcement activities in the area. Officials declined to release operational details, citing safety concerns and the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing effort.
News of the operation circulated rapidly throughout Charlotte, prompting visible public reaction. By Saturday afternoon, dozens of community members and immigrant-rights advocates had gathered outside the Border Patrol facility on Barley Drive. Organizers voiced worries about possible detentions and family disruptions, while volunteers distributed “know your rights” materials and coordinated support for affected households.
Local law enforcement emphasized that they have no direct role in the federal effort. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) stated that its officers are only present to maintain general safety near the area and to manage traffic flow around the federal building.
Advocacy organizations reported a sharp increase in calls from residents seeking information and legal guidance, reflecting heightened anxiety in the community. Many groups said they were working to independently verify reports of detentions and provide resources to families who feared being targeted.
As of Saturday evening, U.S. Customs and Border Protection had not disclosed how many individuals-if any-had been detained or what criteria were being used to identify targets. The duration and full extent of the operation remain unknown.
Local organizers say they plan to continue monitoring the situation closely while offering support to families who feel at risk.
