Georgia, Sept 6 (V7N) – Nearly 500 workers, most of them South Korean nationals, have been detained in a massive federal raid at a Hyundai battery plant construction site in Georgia, marking the largest single-site workplace enforcement action in the history of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

The Sept. 4 operation targeted the HL-GA Battery Company plant in Ellabell, located about 30 miles northwest of Savannah. Federal officials emphasized that the raid was not primarily an immigration sweep but rather the culmination of a months-long criminal investigation into illegal employment practices.

U.S. Attorney Margaret E. Heap stated at a Sept. 5 news conference that the primary objective was to reduce illegal employment and prevent companies from gaining an unfair advantage by hiring unauthorized workers. Around 475 workers were detained, and officials confirmed that violations included entering the country illegally, overstaying visas, and working while on tourist visas that did not permit employment.

Some workers attempted to evade capture by fleeing into an onsite sewage pond but were later pulled out by federal agents using boats. Authorities also noted that investigations are ongoing to determine whether human trafficking played a role in bringing some workers to the site.

Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Steven Schrank clarified that this was not a random immigration round-up but a carefully planned operation supported by evidence, witness interviews, and judicial warrants. Officials underscored that the goal was to ensure fairness in the U.S. labor market.

The $4.3 billion plant, a joint venture between South Korean companies Hyundai and LG, is being built alongside Hyundai Motor Group’s Metaplant America facility on a sprawling 3,000-acre site. It has been promoted as a major source of high-paying jobs for local communities.

Company spokesperson Mary Beth Kennedy said in a statement that HL-GA Battery Company is cooperating fully with federal authorities. Meanwhile, reports in South Korea indicated that the government has expressed concern over the detention of so many of its nationals.

Federal officials confirmed that those detained will face deportation hearings, though no further details on potential criminal charges against employers or contractors have yet been released.

News Source: USA Today

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