ICE Nabs 17 Illegal Aliens at Pennsylvania Job Site After Fire Damage [WATCH]

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced the arrest of 17 illegal immigrants following a workplace inspection conducted at a Pennsylvania apartment complex undergoing restoration after a recent fire.

The operation, carried out by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Philadelphia Allentown office along with federal law enforcement partners, took place at the Five 10 Flats apartment complex in Bethlehem on June 11.

Trump’s Sovereign Wealth Fund: What Could It Mean For Your Money?

According to ICE, the individuals taken into custody were found to be in violation of U.S. immigration laws.

The group included 13 Venezuelan nationals, two Mexican nationals, one Ecuadorian national, and one Nicaraguan national.

All 17 were reportedly employed in the restoration of the complex, which was damaged by a fire in May. ICE stated that the workers were provided by a subcontractor.

The apartment complex currently has no tenants, ICE noted.

This Could Be the Most Important Video Gun Owners Watch All Year

“Inspections like these are critical in targeting illegal employment practices that undermine American workers, destabilize labor markets, and expose our critical infrastructure to exploitation,” said Edward Owens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia.

“A fundamental responsibility of HSI is ensuring worksite compliance.”

ICE’s enforcement of workplace laws includes the investigation of employment eligibility and the targeting of employers and employees who violate federal regulations.

During these inspections, any individual found to be in violation of U.S. immigration laws may be arrested, detained, and subject to removal proceedings.

The arrests came as part of a broader enforcement initiative aimed at ensuring that employers and contractors comply with federal hiring laws and do not employ unauthorized individuals.

ICE has not yet confirmed whether the subcontractor responsible for hiring the workers will face penalties or further investigation.

The inspection was initiated as part of ICE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen workplace enforcement and uphold labor laws that govern employment eligibility in the United States.

ICE reiterated that such operations are intended to promote lawful hiring practices and protect legal workers and businesses from unfair competition.

Local news outlet WFMZ in Pennsylvania reported that the workers had been part of a restoration project for the building following the May fire.

No injuries were reported in connection with the incident or the subsequent enforcement action.

ICE officials stated that enforcement actions at workplaces are a key component of its mission to protect the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and labor force.

In similar past operations, ICE has coordinated with employers, local agencies, and federal partners to carry out workplace compliance reviews and address the employment of unauthorized workers.

All individuals arrested at the Bethlehem site are currently being processed in accordance with federal immigration procedures. ICE has not disclosed whether any of those detained have prior immigration violations or criminal histories.

Hundreds are lining E. 3rd St. in Southside Bethlehem @69News pic.twitter.com/y2BJ5YRrg4

— Michelle Wolf (@MichelleWolfTV) June 12, 2025

The agency has encouraged the public to report suspected immigration violations and unauthorized employment to its tip line.

Further enforcement actions are expected as ICE continues workplace inspections across the country.

Connect with Vetted Off-Duty Cops to Instantly Fulfill Your Security Needs

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.