ICE arrests 11 Ecuadorian nationals during Massachusetts worksite enforcement operation

LOWELL, Mass. — On Friday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), alongside federal law enforcement partners, arrested 11 undocumented Ecuadorian nationals during a worksite enforcement operation at a Lowell-based roofing business suspected of unauthorized hiring practices.

The operation, led by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England Worksite Enforcement group, involved ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers, DEA New England, and ATF Boston.

Arrests occurred at a staging area after interviews and records checks confirmed the individuals’ illegal presence in the U.S.

ICE’s I-9 inspection program enforces employer compliance with federal employment eligibility verification laws, a key tool in deterring unauthorized employment.