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More than 250 people have been taken into custody in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of continuing federal immigration control measures, according to authority reports.

Growing Federal Operations

Charlotte constitutes the newest American city to face heightened federal involvement, following similar operations in larger metropolitan areas like Chicago and Los Angeles earlier this year. Government officials have claimed that those arrested include criminal elements and gang members.

Community Opposition

However, elected officials and residents have strongly criticized the arrests, which federal officials have called "Operation Charlotte's Web". The state's Democratic governor has alleged that people are being selected based on their ethnicity.

"We've observed covered, heavily armed personnel in tactical attire driving unmarked vehicles, focusing on American residents based on their appearance, utilizing racial profiling and arresting random people in community locations," declared the state governor. "This strategy is not strengthening our security."

Administration Position

In a newly released statement, a federal official asserted that the campaign has resulted in the detention of "some of the most dangerous criminal unauthorized persons", comprising gang members.

Other individuals taken into custody had been found guilty for various violations, comprising assault on law enforcement personnel, operating vehicles under influence, theft and manipulating government papers, according to the department.

Local Reaction

The city's municipal leader, similarly a Democratic Party member, encouraged federal authorities to work with "regard" for the city's standards. She additionally commended those who took part in substantial quantities on Saturday to protest the federal administration's actions in the city.

"I am deeply concerned by multiple of the recordings I've viewed," commented the mayor. "To all individuals in Charlotte who is feeling worried or afraid: you are not alone. Your city stands with you."

Persisting Measures

Federal officials have not announced how long the enforcement actions will continue. Chicago's operation started in September and remains active. Like other cities facing immigration enforcement, various immigrants in Charlotte are staying indoors due to fear about federal officers in the city, according to local media.

The top official indicated he's monitoring information that the operation will extend to Raleigh, a different North Carolina urban center, following.

"Repeatedly, I call on federal authorities to target dangerous criminals, not residents walking along the road, visiting church, or displaying holiday displays," he stated.