A HOMELAND Security Investigations or HSI multi-agency task force executed arrest warrants for multiple individuals at Smile Massage and Bar in Garapan on Tuesday morning.
The operation was described as a “drug bust” and “immigration enforcement” action targeting Chinese nationals who had overstayed their visas, Variety learned.
John Duenas, assistant special agent-in-charge of HSI for Guam, the CNMI and Micronesia, was present at the scene but declined to make a statement. He said the case was still sealed in federal court.
Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, HSI-ICE, Department of Public Safety, and Customs Biosecurity were seen gathering and collecting evidence at the establishment.
On June 12, videos showing law enforcement officers wearing “POLICE ICE” and “HSI POLICE” vests arresting individuals at two locations in Garapan circulated on social media. One arrest took place near the Garapan Roundhouse on Middle Road, and another occurred at a residence in MIHA Housing, also in Garapan.
Both individuals arrested were Chinese nationals who had overstayed their CNMI visas.
The increase in HSI and Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in the CNMI follows executive orders by President Donald Trump related to ending birthright citizenship and other immigration enforcement priorities.
Federal and local authorities executed arrest warrants at Smile Massage and Bar in Garapan on Tuesday morning.
