U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced the successful dismantling of a large-scale forced labor operation involving Chinese nationals, following a multi-state investigation that spanned over 18 months.
According to a statement released by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) division, the operation led to the arrest of 37 individuals connected to an international human trafficking and labor exploitation ring. The network is alleged to have smuggled Chinese workers into the United States under false pretenses and forced them to work in harsh, exploitative conditions in garment factories, construction sites, and agricultural facilities across several states, including California, New York, and Texas.
“This is one of the most significant forced labor cases we’ve uncovered in recent years,” said ICE Director Patrick J. Lechleitner. “The individuals involved preyed on vulnerable people with promises of opportunity, only to subject them to abusive labor conditions, wage theft, and threats of violence and deportation.”
The investigation, codenamed Operation Silk Shackles, began after a tip from a non-governmental organization working with immigrant communities in Los Angeles. Victims, many of whom spoke limited English and feared retaliation, were reportedly forced to work up to 16 hours a day, lived in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, and were often denied medical care and access to outside help.
Federal officials confirmed that over 100 individuals were rescued during coordinated raids conducted last week. Victims are now receiving support, including housing, legal assistance, and medical care, through partnerships with nonprofit organizations and the Department of Health and Human Services.
Authorities allege that the trafficking ring had financial ties to entities in mainland China, and are coordinating with international law enforcement to pursue additional leads.
Several of those arrested are expected to face federal charges, including human trafficking, forced labor, visa fraud, and money laundering. If convicted, some could face decades in prison.
ICE emphasized that the agency’s focus remains on bringing traffickers to justice while ensuring that victims are treated with dignity and compassion.
“Human trafficking is a heinous crime that undermines our fundamental values,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. “We will continue to pursue and prosecute those who profit from human suffering, wherever they may be.”
The Department of Justice is expected to release more details on the pending indictments in the coming days.
🔥 BREAKING: ICE Busts Massive Chinese Forced Labor Ring in U.S.
Dozens arrested. Over 100 victims freed.
After an 18-month investigation, ICE has dismantled a major human trafficking network forcing Chinese workers into grueling labor across U.S. factories and farms.
Victims were promised opportunity—but faced 16-hour days, threats, and inhumane conditions.
Authorities say this is one of the largest forced labor busts in recent history. Justice is coming. 💥
🛑 Human trafficking is modern-day slavery.
📞 If you see something, say something: 1-866-DHS-2-ICE
#EndHumanTrafficking #ForcedLabor #ICE #BreakingNews
