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Federal agents have been deployed to the Democratic-run city as part of the federal government's intensifying campaign on unauthorized immigration, according to authority reports.

The campaign, called "Operation Charlotte's Web", was revealed on the weekend, with officials stating that "illegal immigrants with criminal records" would be primary subjects in the metropolitan region.

"Federal authorities are sending DHS law enforcement to the city to ensure Americans are safe and eliminate security risks," an official representative commented.

City authorities, including Charlotte's mayor, issued a joint statement opposing the campaign, saying it was causing "unwarranted anxiety and confusion" in the local population.

Operation Details

Military-style vehicles and special operations teams could be participating in the North Charlotte enforcement action, according to official records.

Several church members doing yard work at a local place of worship retreated to wooded areas when officers appeared, with one man being taken into custody, according to witness statements.

"We assumed the religious facility was protected and no incidents would occur," a 15-year-old witness commented.

Background Situation

Since the presidential term renewal, federal authorities have been dispatched to multiple cities including major metropolitan areas to implement the commitment of "the biggest immigration enforcement effort" in US history.

The Department of Homeland Security said they are implementing the initiative because the state has not honoured the approximately 1,400 Immigration and Customs Enforcement individuals in custody, meaning they had been released due to "protective measures".

Municipal Classification

This municipality is not a sanctuary city - cities that have measures in place to reduce support given to federal immigration authorities - but it is a "officially recognized inclusive community". This is a official classification for cities that are committed to immigrant integration.

"Federal officials will intervene to defend Americans when municipal leaders won't," officials announced.

Demographic Context

Charlotte is an demographically mixed city, with about 17% of residents being born outside of the country, according to census information.

DHS has not disclosed how long the enforcement actions will continue. Windy City enforcement, which began in September is still ongoing.

Political Reaction

Earlier in the week, Democratic representative Alma Adams said she was made aware of the initiative and was "extremely concerned" about Border Patrol and ICE agents coming to North Carolina.

The next city on the administration's agenda is set to be New Orleans, according to reports, and that as many as numerous personnel could be deployed to the area.

Operations in previous cities like large metropolitan areas have come under fire over allegations of overly aggressive tactics.

Support Options

Authorities said there are "various agencies available to support those requiring counsel on immigration concerns".

• Immigration law groups are prepared to help those impacted
• Community resources can provide direction on individual entitlements
• Official channels exist for raising issues about enforcement actions