EDISON, N.J. (PIX11) — What began as a routine workday at Alba Wine & Spirits warehouse in Edison, New Jersey, ended in fear and confusion as Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers conducted a raid early Tuesday morning.
According to workers and advocacy groups, ICE officers arrived around 9 a.m. and surrounded the warehouse.
“They came around 9 o’clock and went all around the building,” said Juan, a warehouse employee. “He asked for the ID or if you have something to prove you can work here.”
The organization New Labor, which assists immigrant workers and responded to the scene, alleges federal agents entered the premises with a list of employees and checked each person’s immigration status. At least 20 workers were reportedly detained, though ICE has not confirmed the total number.
David, another worker who was temporarily detained, said he was zip-tied before showing proof of his Social Security and immigration status. He was released and given a red bracelet, signifying he could remain. “Those without bracelets were taken away,” he explained in Spanish.
A Facebook Live video posted by Reverend Seth Kaper-Dale shows ICE officers, some with covered faces, overseeing the loading of detainees into a van. One worker claimed officers pulled him from his car during a break and slammed him to the ground. “They handcuffed me. They said I wasn’t listening, and they threw me on the floor,” he said.
Edison officials confirmed they were notified of the operation but did not participate, citing New Jersey’s status as a sanctuary state.
Inside the warehouse, the atmosphere was described as tense and frightening. “People were crying,” Juan said. “You have family, and you feel very nervous. I feel very bad.”
New Labor also claims the officers did not present a warrant before entering the workplace. ICE has not yet responded to a request for comment. Alba Wine & Spirits has also not issued a statement.
Those detained are reportedly being transported to immigration detention facilities such as CoreCivic in Elizabeth and Delaney Hall in Newark.
Advocates and workers argue the raid raises serious questions about enforcement priorities. “If ICE is going after criminals, why are they targeting worksites where migrants are simply trying to earn a living?” New Labor asked.