UPDATE: More than 250 arrests have been confirmed in an aggressive immigration crackdown across North Carolina, particularly in and around Charlotte, the state’s largest city. The operation, named Operation Charlotte’s Web, was announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on November 18, 2025, and is part of a broader initiative aimed at targeting individuals living in the U.S. without legal permission.
This crackdown, which began over the weekend, has already expanded to include suburbs near the state capital of Raleigh. The surge in arrests has created a climate of fear among immigrant communities, leading to significant drops in school attendance and the temporary closure of small businesses seeking to avoid confrontation with federal agents.
According to reports, local immigrant neighborhoods have been particularly affected, with an estimated 20% of Cary’s population being foreign-born. In these areas, residents have expressed anxiety as federal agents have been spotted frequently, causing many to stay home.
Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander overseeing these operations, has been leading the effort in North Carolina before transitioning to a similar operation set to begin in New Orleans on December 1, 2025. Approximately 250 federal agents are expected to arrive in Louisiana, escalating concerns about the nationwide impact of these enforcement actions.
Protests have erupted in response to the crackdown, with demonstrators gathering outside a Home Depot in Charlotte, calling for an end to federal presence in their communities. Signs reading “ICE out of Home Depot, Protect our communities” were displayed as protesters voiced their opposition to the aggressive tactics employed.
“The government continues to target some of the most dangerous criminal illegal aliens,” stated a DHS representative, although they have not shared specifics about those arrested or future enforcement locations, leaving communities on high alert.
The chilling effect in Charlotte is evident, as local businesses struggle amid fears of federal enforcement. Schools report decreased attendance, and vibrant immigrant communities face uncertainty as federal operations continue unabated. Many residents are left wondering where federal agents will appear next.
As the situation develops, communities across North Carolina and beyond remain on edge, awaiting further announcements from federal authorities. Officials have not disclosed details about future raids, intensifying anxiety among families and local leaders.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds. The implications of these operations extend beyond North Carolina, marking a significant chapter in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement nationwide.
