Bryan County, Georgia, October 27, 2025
ICE and Homeland Security conducted a significant raid at a Hyundai manufacturing plant in Bryan County, Georgia, focusing on workplace violations. This operation underscores the increasing emphasis on immigration enforcement within the automotive industry. Local authorities express concern over possible disruptions to the workforce, especially considering the plant’s expansion into electric vehicle production. The intervention marks a notable moment in federal immigration policy impacting the manufacturing sector, raising questions about labor availability in the growing electric vehicle market.
Ellabell, Georgia: Federal Authorities Detain 475 Workers at Hyundai Manufacturing Facility
Ellabell, Georgia – On September 4, 2025, a major immigration enforcement operation resulted in the detention of 475 individuals at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Bryan County, Georgia. The operation involved various federal and state law enforcement agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), who executed a search warrant at the HL-GA Battery Company construction site. This incident marks the largest single-site enforcement action by Homeland Security Investigations to date.
Details of the Operation
The operation, referred to as “Operation Low Voltage,” stemmed from a lengthy investigation into allegations of unlawful employment practices at the Hyundai facility. Many of those detained were working for various contractors involved in the construction of the HL-GA Battery Company, a collaborative venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution. As a result of the raid, construction at the site has been temporarily halted.
Impact on Hyundai’s Operations
In light of the raid, Hyundai Motor Company committed to adhering to all applicable laws and regulations, including immigration and employment verification guidelines. The company clarified that none of the detained individuals were directly employed by them. Following these events, construction activities at the HL-GA Battery Company are paused, with a planned resumption in the first half of 2026.
Background Context
The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Bryan County, Georgia, is a vital facility for manufacturing Hyundai’s electric vehicles and batteries. This facility is crucial to a $7.6 billion investment expected to generate over 8,000 jobs once operational. The recent raid has raised concerns regarding local employment and the potential delays in the facility’s expansion plans.
Reactions and Future Developments
In the wake of the operation, Hyundai announced an additional investment of $2.7 billion aimed at expanding production capacity at their Georgia plant, which is projected to create 3,000 more jobs. This decision reflects Hyundai’s ongoing commitment to its operations in the United States, despite the recent challenges faced.
Conclusion
The federal operation at Hyundai’s manufacturing facility in Ellabell, Georgia, has resulted in the detention of 475 workers and a stop to construction activities. Hyundai’s dedication to complying with U.S. laws and its continued investment in the Georgia facility signify their commitment to both their U.S. operations and the local economy.
FAQ
What was the purpose of the federal operation at Hyundai’s facility in Ellabell, Georgia?
The operation aimed to investigate allegations of unlawful employment practices and other federal crimes at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Bryan County, Georgia. Federal and state law enforcement agencies executed a judicially authorized search warrant at the HL-GA Battery Company construction site, leading to the detention of 475 individuals.
How many individuals were detained during the operation?
A total of 475 individuals were detained during the operation. The majority of those detained were South Korean nationals, with additional individuals from Mexico, Japan, China, and Indonesia also apprehended.
What impact did the raid have on Hyundai’s operations?
The raid led to the temporary shutdown of construction activities at the HL-GA Battery Company facility. Hyundai announced plans to resume construction in the first half of 2026. Additionally, Hyundai announced a $2.7 billion investment to expand production capacity at the Georgia plant, aiming to create an additional 3,000 jobs.
What is the significance of the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Bryan County, Georgia?
The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America is a significant manufacturing site for Hyundai’s electric vehicles and batteries. The facility is part of a $7.6 billion investment and is expected to create over 8,000 jobs upon full operation. The recent raid has raised concerns about the impact on local employment and potential delays in the plant’s expansion plans.
Key Features of the Hyundai Manufacturing Facility in Ellabell, Georgia
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ellabell, Bryan County, Georgia |
| Investment | $7.6 billion |
| Expected Jobs Upon Full Operation | Over 8,000 |
| Recent Investment | $2.7 billion to expand production capacity |
| Additional Jobs from Recent Investment | 3,000 |
| Construction Resumption | First half of 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Governor Kemp Advocates for Korean Investments in Georgia
Georgia Governor Visits South Korea to Boost Economic Ties
Massive Immigration Raid at Hyundai Plant in Georgia
Hyundai’s CEO Addresses Delayed Grand Opening Due to ICE Raid
ICE and Homeland Security Conduct Workplace Raid at Hyundai in Georgia
South Korean EV Battery Manufacturers Restart U.S. Operations
Governor Kemp’s Visit to Korea to Address Economic Frustration
LG Energy Solution Resumes Construction of Georgia Battery Plant
Author: Construction FL News
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