Overview

• Homeland Security Investigations said most of those detained were South Korean nationals working for a network of subcontractors at the Bryan County site.
• Agents executed a judicial search warrant at the battery-plant construction area in a multi-agency operation that HSI called its largest single-site enforcement action.
• Authorities said detainees included people who allegedly entered the U.S. illegally as well as those accused of overstaying visas or violating visa-waiver work rules.
• HL-GA Battery Company said it is cooperating with investigators and paused construction, while Hyundai reported that EV manufacturing at the adjacent plant continues.
• South Korea sent diplomats to assist detained nationals and urged U.S. authorities to protect their citizens’ rights as the investigation continues with no charges announced against the operating companies.