Federal agents executed a search warrant at Ocean Seafood Depot in Newark, New Jersey, on Wednesday morning. The operation involved more than two dozen agents, including six dressed in FBI uniforms. This search followed a prior raid by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in January.
Details of the Raid
The search began around 8 a.m. Members of an advocacy group gathered nearby to monitor the situation. Around 50 workers were permitted to leave the facility, receiving red wristbands to indicate their freedom to exit. Approximately five SUVs were stationed outside the depot during the operation.
No Immediate Detainees
Throughout the morning, authorities did not apprehend any individuals outside the building. By 12:30 p.m., all agents had left the scene without further incidents.
ICE’s Official Statement
Christine Cuttita, a spokesperson for ICE, confirmed the action in a statement later in the day. “ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark, working in coordination with federal partners, executed a court-authorized search warrant as part of an active criminal investigation involving labor operations at Ocean Seafood,” she explained. Cuttita noted that further details would be shared as they became available.
Worker Testimony
Caetano Brandao, a worker at Ocean Seafood Depot, reported that he witnessed agents questioning employees shortly after their arrival. Brandao, a naturalized citizen with six years at the facility, mentioned he and others were briefly detained before being released. He indicated that approximately 20 workers remained inside for questioning.
Response from Local Officials
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka responded to the raid, expressing concern over the treatment of residents and workers. He stated that his administration was investigating the incident while waiting for additional information from federal authorities. “Newark remains resolute. We are an American city. We uphold American values,” Baraka declared, reaffirming the city’s status as a sanctuary city.
Previous Raid Context
The January raid drew criticism as it reportedly involved the detention of U.S. citizens, including a military veteran. The ICE operation resulted in citations for three immigrants.
Advocacy Reaction
Advocates and community members expressed their outrage over the increased federal presence at the seafood depot. Terri Suess, co-founder of the watchdog group Eyes on ICE, noted the surprising presence of armed agents. Another advocate, Carlos Castaneda, recounted a heated exchange with a depot worker who supported the current federal actions.
- Date of Raid: Wednesday morning
- Location: Ocean Seafood Depot, Newark, NJ
- Number of Agents: More than two dozen
- Workers Released: About 50 received red wristbands
- Workers Detained: Approximately 20 questioned inside
This recent raid at Ocean Seafood Depot highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the region. As investigations continue, community advocacy remains strong against perceived injustices affecting local immigrant populations.
