🚧 Work on Hyundai’s upcoming EV battery plant in Georgia hit the brakes after U.S. authorities detained up to 450 workers in a major immigration raid this Thursday. It’s a drama unfolding like a high-stakes Netflix episode—minus the chill vibes. 🍿
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) led the operation, described as a “judicially authorised enforcement operation” targeting unlawful employment practices. “Arrests are being made,” said Steven Schrank, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations for Georgia, during a live TV briefing.
Unpacking the scene: The site, a joint venture between LG Energy Solution and Hyundai Motor, is set to become one of the biggest investments in Georgia, powering the next generation of electric vehicles. But with construction paused, the gig is now on hold—leaving local economies and aspiring EV aficionados on edge.
Residents of South Korea were among those detained, highlighting how immigration policies under President Donald Trump’s administration are reshaping the business landscape. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has ramped up operations, echoing a broader crackdown that’s no stranger to controversy.
Hyundai-GA battery company’s response? They’re “cooperating fully with the appropriate authorities” and have hit pause on construction to assist the probe. Meanwhile, investors and the local community are waiting to see when—and if—the project will reboot.
Why it matters: More than just a headline, this raid underlines the tightrope between national security and economic growth. As the EV revolution accelerates, disruptions like this raise questions: How will companies navigate immigration hotspots? And what’s the real cost of compliance vs. momentum?
Stay tuned as we follow this unfolding saga of power, policies, and people. 🌎🔋
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Work paused at Hyundai's U.S. site after workers detained in raid
cgtn.com
