ICE detains 17 “illegal aliens” during Pennsylvania worksite inspection

(WHTM) — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced they arrested 17 “illegal aliens” during a workplace inspection in Pennsylvania.

ICE said in a news release that its Homeland Security Investigations Philadelphia Allentown Office and federal law enforcement partners served a Notice of Inspection at the Five 10 Flats apartment complex at 510 East 3rd Street in Bethlehem.

Upon inspection, ICE says 17 individuals working at the property were arrested for immigration violations, including 13 citizens of Venezuela, two citizens of Mexico, one citizen of Ecuador, and one citizen of Nicaragua.

“Ensuring worksite compliance is a fundamental responsibility of Homeland Security Investigations,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Edward V. Owens. “Our commitment to safeguarding public safety, national security, and economic stability is unwavering. Inspections like these are critical in targeting illegal employment practices that undermine American workers, destabilize labor markets, and expose our critical infrastructure to exploitation.”

ICE said the apartment complex is currently being restored, and the workers were provided by a subcontractor. The complex is not occupied by any tenants.