A local café owner is speaking out after an immigration enforcement raid disrupted operations and left staff and customers shaken.
The raid took place on [day of week, e.g., Tuesday] morning at [Café Name], a popular coffee spot located in [neighbourhood or city], when officers from immigration authorities entered the premises without prior notice. Eyewitnesses reported a heavy presence of uniformed officers who questioned staff and detained at least two employees suspected of lacking proper documentation.
“I’m furious,” said [Owner’s Name], the café’s owner. “This is a place of business and community. My staff are like family. They were treated like criminals in front of customers.”
According to [Owner’s Name], the raid lasted nearly an hour, during which time the café had to temporarily close, resulting in lost revenue and a climate of fear among employees and patrons. Some customers reportedly left mid-order, while others recorded parts of the incident on their phones.
“I understand laws must be enforced,” the owner continued, “but there is a humane and respectful way to do that. This was excessive and traumatizing.”
Local community members have voiced support for the café, many criticizing what they call a “targeted and unnecessary show of force.”
In a statement, immigration authorities said the operation was part of a routine enforcement effort and that all actions taken were within legal bounds. However, advocacy groups argue that such raids do more harm than good, especially in tight-knit communities.
“This is about real people with real lives,” said [Name], a spokesperson for [Immigration Rights Organization]. “Raids like this don’t just affect those being detained—they ripple through the entire neighbourhood.”
The café plans to remain open and is organizing a community event this weekend to promote unity and resilience.
Source: LIIE IMMIGRATION
