Fear and frustration are mounting across Charlotte as federal agents continue “Operation Charlotte’s Web,” an aggressive immigration enforcement surge now in its third day.
Over 130 Arrests in First 24 Hours
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that more than 130 people were arrested in Charlotte within the operation’s first day, involving both CBP and ICE agents. Officials said those detained had violated U.S. immigration laws.
Businesses Emptied, Community Stunned
Local business owner David Rebolloso described chaos over the weekend when Border Patrol agents chased a man through his laundromat, sending customers running in fear. Normally a lively plaza serving the Hispanic community, only two of the 18 businesses opened amid the raids.
Rebolloso said the operation has “instilled fear for no reason,” adding that customers are too afraid to leave their homes. He is now considering offering free pickup and delivery for laundry services to help keep customers safe.
Families Afraid to Leave Home
Less than a mile away, Gloria Connor, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Nicaragua, said her church canceled services as agents patrolled nearby. She is making grocery runs for congregants who fear going outside. Even her 15-year-old grandson hesitated to attend school, telling her, “Grandma, I’m scared… because we look Spanish.”
City Officials Denounce Lack of Communication
Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem Danté Anderson said local leaders were kept in the dark, learning of the raids only minutes before they began.
“They say criminals, but it looks like they’re just pulling people off the street,” Anderson said, adding that families still don’t know where detained loved ones have been taken.
Anderson called the operation “a tragedy,” describing agents in paramilitary gear stopping residents at random. She stressed that Charlotte has seen double-digit declines in crime and questioned the necessity of such tactics.
Deepening Anxiety Across the City
With Border Patrol agents concentrated in South and East Charlotte, residents are avoiding work, school, and errands out of fear of being detained. Anderson said even children were too afraid to board school buses as raids unfolded.
The operation continues, with community members, business owners, and city officials demanding transparency as anxiety ripples through Charlotte’s immigrant neighborhoods.
For more on the effects of Trump’s anti-immigration policies, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.