U.S. immigration agents raid 98 7-Eleven stores for illegal workers

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (Xinhua) -- U.S. immigration agents raided nearly 100 7-Eleven stores nationwide before dawn Wednesday to interview employees and deliver audit notifications, calling the operation a warning to companies that may have unauthorized workers on their payroll.

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said in a statement that its agents targeted 98 stores and made 21 arrests in its largest operation targeting an employer since President Donald Trump took office one year ago.

"Today's actions send a strong message to U.S. businesses that hire and employ an illegal workforce: ICE will enforce the law, and if you are found to be breaking the law, you will be held accountable," said the statement.

"Businesses that hire illegal workers are a pull factor for illegal immigration and we are working hard to remove this magnet," it added.

The agency said the operation was carried out in Washington D.C. and 17 states ranging from western California to eastern New York. Enditem