Hundreds of workers at a Hyundai motor manufacturing facility in Montgomery, Alabama, were detained Friday by federal authorities as part of a large-scale immigration enforcement operation, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The raids, conducted September 6, 2024, targeted alleged employment authorization violations and resulted in the apprehension of approximately 500 individuals.The operation underscores a heightened focus on workplace compliance and immigration enforcement within the automotive industry, and raises concerns about labor practices and the potential disruption of production at the Alabama plant. The affected workers, many of whom are believed to be of Latin American descent, face potential deportation proceedings. the Department of Justice is simultaneously investigating Hyundai and its contracting agencies for knowingly employing unauthorized workers.Federal agents executed search warrants and interviewed employees at the hyundai facility, as well as at several staffing agencies that supply labor to the plant. Authorities allege that some workers presented fraudulent documents-including altered social security cards and fake identification-to secure employment. The investigation began several months ago following tips received from concerned citizens and a review of employment records.”Today’s enforcement actions send a clear message to employers who knowingly exploit unauthorized workers,” said a spokesperson for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in a statement. “We will not tolerate businesses that violate our immigration laws and undermine the integrity of our workforce.”
hyundai Motor has stated it is cooperating fully with the investigation and is committed to complying with all applicable laws. the company acknowledged that some of its employees may have been impacted by the enforcement action but declined to comment on the specifics of the allegations.
The Montgomery plant, which manufactures the Sonata and Elantra models, employs approximately 2,000 peopel.The extent of the production disruption caused by the worker detentions remains unclear, but industry analysts predict potential delays in vehicle deliveries. Labor advocates have criticized the raids, arguing they target vulnerable workers and disrupt families. They are calling for complete immigration reform and protections for workers regardless of their immigration status.
