Immigration officers have arrived in the Democratic-run city as part of the Trump administration's intensifying operation on illegal immigration, according to government announcements.
The operation, named "Charlotte's Web Operation", was revealed on recently, with representatives stating that "illegal immigrants with criminal records" would be the focus in the city.
"We are surging Homeland Security personnel to this location to maintain public safety and public safety threats are removed," government authorities announced.
Local officials, including the city's chief executive, issued a collective announcement condemning the initiative, saying it was causing "unnecessary fear and uncertainty" in the resident base.
Military-style vehicles and tactical squads could be deployed for the Charlotte area operation, according to confidential reports.
Multiple congregants doing yard work at a local place of worship retreated to wooded areas when agents arrived, with one man being detained, according to accounts.
"We thought church was safe and no incidents would occur," a young bystander stated to media.
Since the administration's continuation, national forces have been deployed to multiple cities including major metropolitan areas to deliver on the promise of "an unprecedented removal initiative" in US history.
The DHS said they are conducting the initiative because local authorities has not honoured the around 1,400 ICE individuals in custody, meaning they had been freed due to "local regulations".
Charlotte is not a sanctuary city - municipalities that have measures in place to limit the assistance given to national immigration agencies - but it is a "officially recognized inclusive community". This is a recognized status for cities that are committed to immigrant integration.
"Federal officials will intervene to defend Americans when municipal leaders won't," representatives declared.
Charlotte is an culturally varied municipality, with about 17% of inhabitants being born outside of the country, according to population statistics.
Federal authorities has not revealed how long the raids will persist. The Chicago operation, which began in September is continuing.
Earlier in the week, US Representative and Democrat, Alma Adams said she was made aware of the initiative and was "extremely concerned" about Border Patrol and ICE agents coming to North Carolina.
The subsequent location on Trump's list is set to be the Louisiana city, according to sources, and that as many as numerous personnel could be dispatched to the location.
Enforcement actions in earlier locations like Chicago and Los Angeles have faced criticism over allegations of overly aggressive tactics.
Representatives said there are "various agencies standing ready to assist individuals seeking legal guidance on immigration matters".
A passionate interior designer with over a decade of experience, specializing in sustainable home transformations and creative DIY solutions.