U.S. federal border agents arrested more than 130 migrants on suspicion of illegal residence in Charlotte, North Carolina, during the first days of a targeted operation, authorities said.

The arrests occurred on November 15 and 16, according to Rob Brisley, a spokesperson for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), who said the detentions were part of a federal crackdown on undocumented migrants.

Brisley emphasized that the agency would continue enforcing immigration laws until all undocumented individuals with criminal records are apprehended and removed from the country. Details on the ongoing operation as of November 17 were not disclosed, and the duration remains unclear.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, a Democrat, stressed that constitutional rights and legal protections must be upheld for all individuals, regardless of immigration status. She said local authorities are working to support affected residents and communities.

The operation has sparked protests among some Charlotte residents. Police released images showing arrests of demonstrators who gathered to oppose the federal immigration sweep.

Observers note that the enforcement action in Charlotte reflects the federal government's intensified focus on undocumented migrants across U.S. cities, raising concerns among immigrant communities and civil rights groups.

Local officials are urging calm and dialogue, calling for cooperation between federal authorities and community organizations to minimize disruptions and ensure that human rights and legal protections are respected during ongoing enforcement activities.

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