The mayor of Raleigh, North Carolina, said federal agents would continue their operations in the area on Tuesday after federal agents fanned out in nearby Charlotte over the weekend, arresting more than 130 people in about 48 hours.
Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell issued a statement Monday night regarding the expected Border Patrol enforcement in the city, saying federal action was not requested.
“As a capital city, it is important to us that everyone who lives, works, plays and learns in Raleigh feels safe,” Cowell said. “We have been informed that Customs and Border Protection is coming to Raleigh. While [the Raleigh Police Department] “We are not involved in immigration enforcement, we are committed to protecting our residents and upholding the law.”
U.S. Border Patrol agents observe on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina
Matt Kelley/AP
Cowell also confirmed that the police department has not been involved in any of the immigration planning activities.
“Above all, Raleigh is a safe city, with a crime rate decreasing year after year,” Cowell continued. “Public safety is a priority for me and this City Council.”
People protest as federal authorities conduct raids in Charlotte, expanding their crackdown on illegal immigration, in Raleigh, North Carolina, U.S., on Nov. 16, 2025.
Jonathan Drake/Reuters
Cowell said Raleigh police will do their usual work in the community and will not coordinate with border control agents.
Of the more than 130 people detained in Charlotte over the weekend, 81 were arrested in the first five hours of Operation Charlotte’s Web on Saturday, according to government officials.
Charlotte is the latest city in the Trump administration’s sights to enforce immigration laws, in a nationwide effort that has included Los Angeles and Chicago, which are so-called “sanctuary” cities and states that limit the actions their local authorities take to help the work of immigration agents. The Department of Homeland Security, in announcing its action in North Carolina, said the state also has “sanctuary” politicians.
“We are increasing DHS law enforcement in Charlotte to ensure Americans are safe and threats to public safety are eliminated,” said DHS Deputy Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. saying in a statement. “There have been too many victims of criminal illegal immigrants. President [Donald] Trump and the secretary [Kristi] “Noem will step up to protect Americans when sanctuary politicians won’t.”
Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino watches during an immigration raid on the streets of Charlotte, North Carolina, Nov. 17, 2025.
Sam Wolfe/Reuters
Federal agents are expected to remain in Charlotte through Friday, according to preliminary information from federal authorities. By the end of the week, about 200 officers are expected to be redeployed to New Orleans to begin “Operation Catahoula Crunch” in the Big Easy, according to multiple law enforcement sources.
“This is a key moment to reaffirm our commitment to serving all members of our community,” Cowell said. “If you need help from police, call 911 and help will come. I ask Raleigh to remember our values and maintain peace and respect in the face of any future challenges.”
“Together we are Raleigh Strong,” Cowell said.
Jessica Gorman of ABC News contributed to this report.
