El Paso Standard

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported the outcomes of extensive interagency enforcement operations in Georgia. These efforts targeted illegal aliens within the state since January 22, resulting in the arrest of around 1,500 individuals. The operation was executed in collaboration with several federal agencies, including the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

From March 24, over 150 arrests have been made for criminal and civil immigration violations. The focus was on tackling issues such as gang activity, drug trafficking, violent crimes, and organized crime. Seizures during these operations included narcotics, firearms, and bulk currency. Concurrently, ICE Homeland Security Investigations led a labor trafficking operation, rescuing victims and executing criminal arrests.

Highlights from the operation involved ICE assisting the Cobb County Police Department in arresting a Honduran national accused of murder and rape. Elsewhere, during ICE, ATF, and DEA actions, four individuals were arrested, and 13 firearms seized, one of which involved an individual illegally in the United States. Another operation saw the arrest of 13 illegal aliens and seizure of two firearms and $170,000 in cash.

A labor trafficking operation in Cartersville, Georgia led by ICE and various law agencies, resulted in the arrest of a business owner, rescue of over 60 victims, and execution of eight search warrants. Victims were reported to have been brought to the U.S. to work under poor conditions for unfair wages.

"HSI remains unwavering in its mission to protect the safety and security of our communities," said Steven N. Schrank, ICE HSI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge. He emphasized that operations are a message against criminal activities, irrespective of immigration status.

Those apprehended include individuals convicted of serious crimes such as assault and weapons offenses. ICE, with its partners, also aims to dismantle trafficking networks and combat transnational criminal organizations to enhance national security and public safety.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities to the ICE Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423. Follow @HSIAtlanta on X for further updates.