Ellabell, Georgia, September 5, 2025

News Summary

A significant operation led by federal and state authorities took place at the HL-GA Battery construction site in Ellabell, Georgia, focusing on suspected unlawful employment practices. Various agencies, including HSI, ICE, FBI, and DEA, executed a judicial search warrant, causing a temporary pause in construction as HL-GA Battery cooperates with investigations. Reports suggest a state of panic among workers, raising concerns about undocumented workers and ongoing safety issues at the site.

Ellabell, Georgia – Major Law Enforcement Operation at Hyundai Battery Plant

Federal and state law enforcement agencies conducted a significant operation at the HL-GA Battery construction site on the Hyundai megasite in Ellabell, Georgia, investigating suspected unlawful employment practices. This operation, executed by a coalition of agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), involved a judicially authorized search warrant.

During the operation, numerous buses filled with individuals were observed leaving the site, although law enforcement has not officially confirmed the number of arrests. HSI agents have stated that any online reports suggesting specific arrest numbers are incorrect. HL-GA Battery announced a pause in construction and confirmed its full cooperation with the authorities involved in the investigation.

The Joint Development Authority of Bryan County affirmed that the company has been in active communication with investigators throughout the operation. To assist with the initiative, the Georgia State Patrol aided in securing the perimeter and provided aviation support, enhancing the scope of the operation.

Local representative Jesse Petrea expressed concerns regarding the presence of undocumented workers at the site, asserting that it undermines American job opportunities and wages. He emphasized the necessity for accountability from Hyundai, citing prior discussions aimed at preventing illegal employment practices at the construction site.

As part of the operation, HSI agents reported making numerous arrests, specifically targeting undocumented individuals. Reports from within the plant indicated a state of panic among workers, with some attempting to flee by jumping fences or escaping onto rooftops. Footage from the scene shows agents directing workers and asking questions pertaining to their citizenship status while conducting bag searches.

Concerns regarding the treatment of workers and prevailing safety issues at the construction site have been ongoing, according to various reports. Former workers have described unsafe working conditions, particularly for undocumented individuals, indicating a pressing need for reform in how workers are treated on-site.

Local authorities advised residents to steer clear of the area during the operation, which was marked by multiple Humvees and a helicopter maintaining a watch over the Hyundai megasite. The investigation appears to be ongoing, with law enforcement officials signaling continuous efforts towards accountability in the matter.

Key Facts Summary

• Operation at HL-GA Battery construction site focused on unlawful employment practices.
• Agencies involved include HSI, ICE, FBI, and DEA.
• Construction has paused as HL-GA Battery cooperates with investigations.
• No official number of arrests has been confirmed, despite reports of multiple detentions.
• Concern over undocumented workers impacting American employment expressed by local representative.
• Local authorities advised avoidance of the area during the operation, which involved heavy law enforcement presence.

Background Context

The HL-GA Battery site is part of a broader initiative to bolster electric vehicle production in the region, specifically related to Hyundai’s expansion efforts. This investigation stems from increasing scrutiny over labor practices in major construction projects, particularly concerning the employment of undocumented workers. The operation at the Hyundai megasite has amplified these concerns and highlighted the need for safety and legality in employment practices, prompting calls for greater enforcement of labor laws and regulations.

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Additional Resources

• WTOC
• Wikipedia: Hyundai
• Savannah Now
• Google Search: Hyundai plant raid Georgia
• NBC News
• Google Scholar: Hyundai labor practices
• Atlanta News First
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hyundai
• USA Today
• Google News: Hyundai megasite Ellabell
• Bryan County News
• Google Search: Hyundai worker conditions

Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER

PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.