As federal authorities intensify efforts to crack down on illegal immigration across the U.S., Maryland has become a focal point of these actions, causing significant anxiety among immigrant communities, including Koreans. According to local media reports, the crackdown has been in full swing, with numerous arrests taking place across the state, including in Columbia, from January 21st to the 29th. On January 21st, agents from the Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested 15 people at a business in Columbia. A nearby Spanish-speaking pastor voiced concerns, stating that while the immigrants arrested were illegal, they were not criminals and expressing uncertainty about where they were being detained.
On January 27th, ICE announced it had arrested 13 individuals in Maryland. Of those arrested, four were not criminals, while the others were illegal immigrants wanted for serious offenses such as murder, armed robbery, child sexual abuse, and drug and firearms convictions. ICE also posted on social media about arresting MS-13 gang members in Hyattsville. A video released on January 29th showed ICE agents arresting several Latin American immigrants in the parking lots of Walmart and Sam’s Club near Ellicott City. These events have caused widespread concern, particularly in businesses that employ many Latin American workers.
The crackdowns have created heightened anxiety among local businesses, especially those with significant Latin American workforces, such as markets, restaurants, car washes, and construction companies. Many Korean-owned businesses are worried about the potential economic impact due to a labour shortage. A construction worker noted that Hispanic workers who typically gather in front of stores like Home Depot to seek day labour jobs have almost completely disappeared due to the increased ICE presence. A market official shared similar concerns, saying, “Most of our employees are Latin Americans, and I am concerned about the repercussions of this raid.” This uncertainty is compounded by rumours and misinformation circulating in the community.
Restaurant owners are also feeling the pressure. One owner explained, “Many of our Latin American employees are anxious and afraid because of the news of the raid,” adding, “I am worried that they may suddenly not come to work.” These concerns reflect the growing unease within immigrant communities in Maryland as the federal crackdown continues.