Massive Arrests at Hyundai Factory in Georgia
A significant number of arrests have taken place at a Hyundai factory in Georgia, involving hundreds of individuals. The Department of Homeland Security, along with immigration and customs enforcement and other federal agencies, conducted operations targeting “illegal employment practices and other serious federal crimes.”
As reported by Stephen Schrank, a special agent leading HSIs in Georgia and Alabama, 475 people were apprehended for either entering the United States unlawfully or for violating the terms of their presence here. He mentioned that, “As of today, I understand that none of those detained have been directly employed by Hyundai Motor Company.”
Schrank elaborated, explaining that the operation stemmed from several months of criminal investigations that involved collecting evidence, conducting interviews, and securing a judicial search warrant. “This wasn’t just about immigration,” he noted. “It was a thorough investigation into unlawful employment practices.”
He indicated that the majority of those arrested were Korean nationals who were working illegally at the site. Some had crossed the border without authorization, while others had overstayed their visas or entered through exemptions but were not allowed to work.
Lee Jae-won, a spokesperson for South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, remarked that the rights and economic interests of their citizens should not be compromised during law enforcement actions in the U.S.
The facility involved is currently under construction for the HL-GA Battery Company, a joint venture between Hyundai and LG Energy Solutions, aimed at providing batteries for an adjacent Hyundai electric vehicle manufacturing plant.
Those arrested were reportedly employed by various companies at the construction site. According to Schrank, this represents one of the largest enforcement operations of its kind in HSI history. No criminal charges have been filed publicly as of now.
In a statement to Blaze News, Hyundai acknowledged awareness of the situation at the HL-GA Battery Company site, emphasizing that they are closely monitoring developments. They reassured that, based on current information, none of the detained individuals were employed by the company and highlighted their commitment to compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
Mary Beth Kennedy, a senior public relations specialist at HL-GA Battery Company, stated that they are cooperating with authorities and have paused construction activities pending further information.
