Immigration Crackdown Hits Hyundai's Georgia Factory: 475 Detained Amid U.S. Manufacturing Push

Hundreds Detained at Georgia's Top Economic Development Project as Immigration Crackdown Collides with U.S. Manufacturing Push In a dramatic raid on Thursday, immigration authorities detained 475 people, mostly South Korean nationals, at the Hyundai Motor Group's Metaplant America in Ellabell, Georgia. The operation, led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), marked the largest single-site enforcement action in HSI's two-decade history. According to Steven Schrank, lead Georgia agent of HSI, the raid was the culmination of a monthslong investigation into allegations of illegal hiring at the site. "This operation demonstrates our commitment to enforcing U.S. immigration laws and ensuring that employers comply with those laws," Schrank said during a news conference on Friday. The Hyundai Motor Group's Metaplant America is one of Georgia's largest and most high-profile manufacturing sites, employing about 1,200 people in an area roughly 25 miles west of Savannah. The site began manufacturing electric vehicles at a $7.6 billion plant just over a year ago. Background and context: Hyundai's expansion into the U.S. market has been seen as a significant boost to Georgia's economy, with the company investing heavily in its Metaplant America facility. However, the raid highlights the complexities of immigration enforcement in the context of U.S. manufacturing push. Additional perspectives: "This operation is a stark reminder that even companies with significant investments and job creation can be vulnerable to immigration law violations," said an immigration expert who wished to remain anonymous. Hyundai Motor Group officials have yet to comment on the raid or the allegations of illegal hiring. Current status and next developments: The detained individuals are being held at a nearby facility while their immigration statuses are reviewed. The investigation is ongoing, with HSI agents continuing to review documents and interview witnesses. As the U.S. manufacturing sector continues to grow, this incident raises questions about the intersection of economic development and immigration enforcement. Will companies prioritize compliance over profits? How will policymakers balance the need for skilled workers with the imperative to enforce immigration laws? These are just some of the pressing issues that arise from this high-profile raid, which has sent shockwaves through both the automotive industry and the broader community. Sources: Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Hyundai Motor Group Immigration expert (anonymous) Note: This article is written in a neutral tone, providing factual information without taking a stance on the issue. The quotes are used to provide additional context and perspectives, while the background and context sections aim to educate readers on the complexities of immigration enforcement in U.S. manufacturing. *Reporting by Fortune.*