Immigration Agents Spotted Near Businesses, Homes in Raleigh and Nearby Cities

In a recent operation, federal immigration agents were spotted in Raleigh and surrounding areas, causing widespread concern among local residents and business owners. The presence of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents was first confirmed by local news sources less than a day before their arrival.

CBP Activity in Raleigh and Nearby Cities

On the morning of November 18, 2025, numerous residents in Cary, Durham, and other communities reported sightings of federal agents. Many shared photos and videos of agents conducting what appeared to be immigration checks outside local businesses and residential areas.

Eyewitness Reports

• Residents of the Pointe at Midtown Apartment complex in North Hills observed agents arriving in vans around 10:30 a.m.
• One resident captured video footage showing agents pursuing individuals in their neighborhood.
• An unidentified woman shared her observations of agents engaging with residents in her building.

Juan Pablo Vazquez, a resident, stated he alerted neighbors upon realizing that federal agents were in the area. He expressed his concern about the ongoing operations, emphasizing their impact on the community.

Community Response

The activity by CBP prompted immediate reactions from various community organizations. Education Justice Alliance Co-Executive Director Letha Muhammad highlighted the importance of community support and vigilance in response to immigration enforcement.

Iliana Santillan, Founder and Executive Director of Brava NC, urged residents to actively support immigrant-owned businesses. She encouraged the public to visit local restaurants and shops to foster community solidarity during these uncertain times.

Impacts on Local Businesses

• Businesses in Cary’s Chatham Square experienced declining sales as many owners opted to close amid fear of potential immigration raids.
• Esmeralda Angel, a business owner, mentioned the need for extra precautions to ensure customer safety without promoting racial profiling.

Residents and business owners alike noted a pervasive atmosphere of fear stemming from the CBP’s presence. Shruti Parikh from North Carolina Asian Americans Together voiced concerns that such operations disrupt the daily lives of immigrants, who are integral members of the community.

Local Officials Weigh In

Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell acknowledged the arrival of federal agents, reaffirming the city’s commitment to community safety. She confirmed that while CBP is operating in the area, the Raleigh Police Department is not involved in immigration enforcement activities.

Meanwhile, protests erupted in downtown Raleigh, where hundreds marched against CBP’s actions in Charlotte, addressing fears of targeted enforcement on Hispanic and South Asian communities. Morrisville Councilmember Steve Rao expressed specific concerns regarding the treatment of the local South Asian population during these operations.

Conclusion

The presence of immigration agents has created a ripple effect throughout the Triangle, impacting both community morale and local economies. As residents band together for support, the discussions surrounding immigration and enforcement are likely to remain highly relevant in the coming days.