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More than 250 people have been detained in Charlotte, North Carolina, as part of ongoing federal border security operations, according to government statements.

Growing Federal Operations

Charlotte constitutes the latest American city to face strengthened federal presence, following comparable actions in bigger metropolitan areas like Chicago and Los Angeles earlier this year. Federal authorities have stated that those apprehended include persons with illegal activities and organized crime affiliates.

Regional Opposition

Nonetheless, local lawmakers and citizens have strongly criticized the arrests, which federal authorities have termed "Operation Charlotte's Web". The state's Democratic governor has alleged that residents are being selected based on their skin color.

"We've seen covered, heavily armed agents in military-style uniforms driving unmarked vehicles, selecting American residents based on their appearance, practicing racial profiling and apprehending unspecified people in parking areas," declared the top official. "This strategy is not improving our protection."

Official Position

In a freshly published announcement, a federal spokesperson stated that the campaign has resulted in the arrest of "among the most hazardous criminal unauthorized persons", encompassing organized crime affiliates.

Other persons detained had been found guilty for various offenses, including attacks against law enforcement officers, operating vehicles under influence, robbery and manipulating government records, according to the department.

Community Feedback

The city's chief executive, also a Democratic Party member, encouraged federal agents to operate with "consideration" for the city's values. She additionally applauded those who engaged in substantial quantities on Saturday to demonstrate against the federal authority's operations in the city.

"I am seriously worried by many of the videos I've watched," remarked the municipal executive. "To each person in Charlotte who is experiencing anxious or apprehensive: you are not alone. Your city supports you."

Continuing Measures

Federal authorities have not disclosed how long the operations will last. Chicago's operation started in September and remains in progress. Like other cities experiencing immigration enforcement, certain immigrants in Charlotte are keeping indoors due to apprehension about federal officers in the metropolitan area, according to local media.

The chief executive mentioned he's observing reports that the operation will extend to Raleigh, an additional North Carolina city, next.

"Once again, I request federal officials to concentrate on aggressive offenders, not neighbors strolling along the road, attending church, or installing holiday displays," he declared.