ICE Rio Grande Valley conducts worksite enforcement operation resulting in 25 arrests

HARLINGEN, Texas – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the support of Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Marshals Service, arrested 25 illegal aliens June 4 during a targeted worksite enforcement operation that took place at two construction sites, South Padre Island and Brownsville, Texas.

"Today’s arrests reflect ICE’s unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of our immigration system and protecting our nation’s workforce. Individuals who violate federal immigration and employment laws not only undermine fair labor standards but also pose potential security and safety risks. ICE will continue to work with our partners to identify and investigate those who disregard the law and exploit our country’s systems for personal or commercial gain,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee.

The individuals arrested are citizens of Mexico and Honduras and are pending removal back to their home country.

Under federal law, employers are required to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all individuals they hire, and to document that information using the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9. ICE uses the I-9 inspection program to promote compliance with the law, part of a comprehensive strategy to address and deter illegal employment. Inspections are one of the most powerful tools the federal government uses to ensure that businesses are complying with U.S. employment laws.

ICE’s worksite enforcement strategy includes leveraging the agency’s other investigative disciplines, since worksite investigations can often involve additional criminal activity, such as alien smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, document fraud, worker exploitation and/or substandard wage and working conditions.

Members of the public with information can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

For more information about ICE HSI San Antonio and its efforts to enhance public safety in south and central Texas, follow us on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.

Learn more about worksite enforcement by visiting ICE’s Worksite Enforcement Investigations

Source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE.gov)