Hyundai battery project paused after major US immigration raid

Up to 450 workers at a Hyundai Motor facility under construction in Georgia were detained in a major US raid on September 4, leading to a pause in the project to build a car battery factory.

The facility, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor and South Korea’s LG Energy Solution (LGES), was due to start operations later this year, according to Reuters. 

An agent at the US Department of Homeland Security said multiple agencies "conducted a judicially authorised enforcement operation, as we are actively conducting an investigation into unlawful employment practices."

Steven Schrank, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations for Georgia, added, "Arrests are being made."

About 30 South Korean nationals were reportedly among those detained. Hyundai-GA’s spokesperson said the company is "cooperating fully with the appropriate authorities regarding activity at our construction site" and had paused construction to assist.

Hyundai Motor confirmed electric vehicle production at the site was not affected.

LG Energy Solution said it is working with the South Korean government and authorities "to ensure the safety of our employees and staff at contractors, and to secure their swift release from detention," providing "all necessary support, including interpreters and legal assistance."

By Sabina Mammadli