ICE Conducts Sweeping Operation in West Virginia, Arrests Over 650 Illegal Aliens

In a significant enforcement action, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arrested more than 650 illegal aliens across West Virginia during a two-week operation. Conducted from January 5 to January 19, this coordinated enforcement effort involved multiple local law enforcement agencies and proceeded without objection or protest.

Why It Matters

This operation underscores the ongoing U.S. government’s efforts to enhance public safety and enforce immigration laws. The arrests included individuals deemed threats to national security, reflecting the administration’s commitment to addressing illegal immigration while collaborating effectively with local authorities.

Key Developments

• ICE arrested over 650 illegal aliens, including individuals with criminal backgrounds.
• The operation spanned various locations, including Charleston, Martinsburg, Beckley, Moorefield, Morgantown, and Huntington.
• ICE partnered with 14 local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies for this initiative.
• Significant arrests included Sagar Singh from India, previously ordered removed from the U.S., and Ling Yan from China, a convicted child endangerer.

Full Report

Operation Overview

The two-week enforcement initiative, named Operation ICE Wall, aimed to identify and apprehend illegal aliens, particularly those operating commercial vehicles. The operation utilized a collaborative approach among law enforcement, bolstering local capacities to effectively address illegal activity while maintaining adherence to legal standards.

Michael Rose, the acting Field Office Director for ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations in Philadelphia, emphasized the importance of collaboration. He stated, "This operation demonstrates how strong partnerships between ICE and West Virginia law enforcement agencies enhance public safety and the integrity of our immigration system."

Notable Arrests

Among the detainees was Sagar Singh, an Indian national who was stopped for multiple vehicle infractions and had an outstanding removal order. In a separate instance, Ling Yan, also known as Yang Ning, was arrested; Yan has prior convictions related to endangering children’s welfare and also faces a removal order.

Other offenders apprehended included a convicted sex offender and individuals with drug possession charges, highlighting the operation’s focus on removing those considered dangerous to the community.

Local Law Enforcement’s Response

Local law enforcement agencies expressed strong support for the operation. Jefferson County Sheriff Tom Hansen commended the professionalism and dedication of the ICE agents. He stated, "We are also gratified that through this program, we have had the opportunity to remove numerous dangerous criminals from our community."

Context & Previous Events

This operation is part of a broader trend of heightened immigration enforcement across the United States. Previous actions by ICE have seen similar large-scale arrests in various states, reflecting a sustained emphasis on combating illegal immigration and enhancing community safety.

As the issue of immigration continues to be a contentious topic in U.S. politics, such operations highlight the federal government’s approach to ensure compliance with immigration laws while maintaining collaboration with local authorities.