UPDATE: Federal agents have arrested over 250 individuals in a sweeping immigration operation across North Carolina, primarily centered around Charlotte, the state’s largest city. This crackdown, known as Operation Charlotte’s Web, was confirmed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on November 18, 2025, and reflects an aggressive stance on immigration enforcement.
The operation, which began over the weekend, has expanded to areas around Raleigh, triggering widespread fear in immigrant communities. Reports indicate that the number of arrests is nearly double what was initially announced earlier this week, raising alarms among local residents and officials.
Federal authorities have stated that the crackdown targets “some of the most dangerous criminal illegal aliens,” including those without legal status and individuals with criminal records. However, details about those arrested remain scarce, leaving communities anxious about where federal agents will strike next.
In Charlotte, the crackdown has sparked protests, with approximately 100 demonstrators gathering outside a local Home Depot to voice their opposition to federal enforcement. Protesters carried signs reading, “ICE out of Home Depot, Protect our communities,” as agents were reportedly seen multiple times in the area since the operation commenced.
The impact of the arrests has been immediate and severe. Reports indicate a significant drop in school attendance among immigrant families, and local businesses, particularly family-owned restaurants and shops, have seen reduced traffic as they aim to avoid confrontations with law enforcement.
In the suburb of Cary, where nearly 20% of residents are foreign-born, fear has gripped the community. Local establishments, including ethnic grocery stores, reported minimal customer activity, reflecting the chilling effect of the ongoing crackdown.
Authorities are not only focusing on North Carolina. Documents reveal that Border Patrol agents are expected to move to New Orleans by the end of the week to prepare for another major operation set to launch on December 1, 2025. Approximately 250 federal border agents are slated to participate in this upcoming enforcement effort.
Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander overseeing both the North Carolina and Louisiana operations, has faced criticism for the methods employed during these large-scale crackdowns. The Department of Homeland Security has refrained from commenting on the specifics of the ongoing operations, citing the need for operational security.
As the situation unfolds, communities across North Carolina remain on high alert, bracing for further developments in this urgent immigration enforcement initiative. The federal government’s approach has spurred significant public dissent and raised critical questions about the human impact of such policies.