Mandy
ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents are set to begin enforcement activities in Raleigh, North Carolina, as early as Tuesday, according to State Sen. Graig Meyer, who represents Caswell, Person, and Orange counties. His confirmation supports earlier reports shared with ABC11.
Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell also verified the information, emphasizing that safety and community trust remain central priorities for the city.
Mayor Cowell Reassures Residents
In a statement, Cowell noted that Raleigh Police Department (RPD) is not involved in federal immigration efforts and has participated in no planning activities related to the operation.
She added that crime in Raleigh has decreased year-over-year, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a safe place.
Cowell urged residents to remain calm and grounded in local values:
“Together we are Raleigh Strong,” she said. “If you need help, you call 911 and help will come.”
Regional Leaders Respond to Federal Action
Several Democratic leaders echoed concerns following the announcement.
Durham Mayor Leo Williams
He condemned any operation that “promotes exclusion” or “incites fear,” praising Durham’s strength in its cultural and linguistic diversity.
Gov. Josh Stein
Stein criticized the targeting of people “simply going about their lives,” urging federal agents to focus on violent offenders, not individuals walking, shopping, or attending church. He encouraged residents to record and report any inappropriate actions.
Community Uncertainty and Rising Questions
In Morrisville, Councilmember Steve Rao said many residents have reached out with questions about documents they should carry, including visas, passports, or green card applications.
Rao expressed specific concern for the area’s large South Asian community, noting fears tied to both legal status and significant proposed fee increases for skilled worker visas.
Recent Activity in Charlotte Raises Alarm
Federal agents spent the weekend in Charlotte, sparking multiple protests. Many of the enforcement actions reportedly targeted Hispanic-owned businesses.
The Department of Homeland Security announced that Operation Charlotte’s Web resulted in more than 80 arrests, though residents reported CBP presence near apartment complexes and churches.
Despite declining crime rates, the Trump administration has positioned Charlotte as a key location for its immigration crackdown.
Morrisville Issues Safety Guidelines
Morrisville Mayor Pro Tem Satish Garimella encouraged residents to remain prepared and carry essential identification and immigration documentation.
He also recommended keeping original documents stored safely with a trusted person.
Garimella emphasized that the guidance was being shared solely to help residents stay informed and protected.
Conclusion
With federal immigration operations expanding from Charlotte to Raleigh, communities across the Triangle are bracing for increased enforcement activity.
Local leaders are prioritizing safety, urging calm, and encouraging residents—especially immigrants—to stay informed about their rights and documentation.
As the situation evolves, cooperation, awareness, and community support remain vital.
FAQs
1. Are Raleigh police participating in the immigration enforcement operation?
No. The Raleigh Police Department has not taken part in any immigration enforcement planning and will not assist in federal operations.
2. Why are federal agents expanding operations to Raleigh?
Immigration authorities have not publicly explained, but expansion follows recent Charlotte arrests and broader federal enforcement initiatives.
3. What should residents carry with them during this time?
Local officials advise carrying ID, a passport copy, and relevant immigration documents, while keeping originals stored safely.