Homeland Security Agents Conduct Operation in South Park Neighborhood During ICE Raid at Buona Forchetta
In a dramatic scene on Friday afternoon, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out a series of arrests at Buona Forchetta, a well-known Italian restaurant located in the heart of San Diego’s South Park neighborhood.
The operation was confirmed by a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent, who stated that the agency was executing a criminal search warrant at the establishment. “We’re executing a criminal search warrant at the location that we just completed,” said the agent, who requested anonymity.
Emotional Scene Unfolds During ICE Raid at Buona Forchetta
Claire Cody, a visibly emotional employee of Buona Forchetta, recounted arriving for her shift around 4:30 p.m. only to be met by vehicles and men in Homeland Security uniforms. “Ten federal agents entered the restaurant. They handcuffed my manager, showed us a search warrant, and I just broke down crying—I knew what was happening,” Cody said.
She estimated that around three to four employees were taken into custody during the raid.
Community Reaction and Tense Moments During ICE Raid at Buona Forchetta
The arrests quickly attracted attention, drawing a crowd of concerned onlookers. Witnesses captured the event on video, recording federal agents and their vehicle license plates. Emotions escalated as the crowd surrounded the agents, shouting criticisms and labeling them “fascists.”
One unmarked vehicle attempting to leave the area at 30th and Beech Streets was blocked by protesters. After unsuccessfully using sirens to clear the path, agents deployed what appeared to be a smoke device to disperse the group and exit the scene.
Restaurant Temporarily Closed
Cody and other staff members, some of whom preferred not to be named, confirmed that Buona Forchetta would remain closed for the rest of the day.
“You always hear about these things happening somewhere else, but then it happens here—to people you know,” Cody shared. “I can’t stop thinking about my coworkers and their families. I’m just praying that they’re safe and OK.”
What Happens Next?
The specifics of the charges or the nature of the investigation have not been publicly disclosed. ICE has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.
Know Your Rights and Stay Informed
For information on your rights during immigration enforcement operations, and to understand what ICE and HSI are authorized to do, visit these official U.S. government resources:
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – ICE
- Know Your Rights During Immigration Raids (ACLU Guide)
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services – USCIS
- Homeland Security Investigations – HSI
- ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO)
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