Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) announced Friday that 475 illegal migrants were arrested during a major enforcement raid at the Hyundai–LG Energy Solution battery plant construction site in Ellabell, Georgia, about 20 miles from Savannah.
The operation, carried out Thursday, was the largest single-site raid ever conducted by HSI. It follows a series of workplace crackdowns under the Trump administration.
Federal Operation
HSI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Steven Schrank said the raid targeted both Hyundai subcontractors and workers at the site. “We are sending a clear and unequivocal message that those who exploit our workforce, undermine our economy and violate federal laws will be held accountable,” Schrank said.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that ICE, FBI, DEA, CBP, ATF, IRS, the U.S. Department of Labor, and Georgia State Patrol assisted in the operation. DHS described it as part of a larger criminal probe into unlawful employment practices and other federal crimes.
Plant Details
The Hyundai–LGES facility, valued at between $4.3 and $7.6 billion, is the largest single industrial investment in Georgia’s history. It is expected to supply batteries to Hyundai’s nearby EV plant. Construction,