Nick Della Canal

Activists say Border Patrol sightings around Charlotte have dropped sharply, though they're urging undocumented and mixed-status families to stay alert.

In Washington, North Carolina Republican Senator Tom Tillis said he wants the identities of detainees to be released.

Homeland Security has identified only a handful of detainees.

saying at least 44 have criminal records and two are suspected gang members.

For NPR News, I'm Nick Della Canal in Charlotte.

Activists are urging Charlotte leaders to bar Border Patrol agents from city-owned buildings and parking lots.

Agents have been making dozens of arrests along Charlotte's immigrant corridors, sparking chaotic scenes, including outside an Hispanic supermarket where shoppers honked horns and yelled at agents.

In a video statement, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein said agents are stoking fear.

and he urged residents to record them.

It's still unclear who agents have arrested.

The agency hasn't released names or charges.

For NPR News, I'm Nick Della Canal in Charlotte.

Border Patrol agents are expected in Charlotte on Saturday or early next week.

The local sheriff says he's not involved, and Charlotte police say they don't take part in federal immigration enforcement.

At a news conference, local Democrats argue the operation isn't needed and appears politically motivated.

Here's city councilman-elect J.D.

Mazuera-Arias, himself an immigrant.

State Representative Ayesha Dew also questioned why a border operation is planned for Charlotte, noting the nearest border is South Carolina.

For NPR News, I'm Nick Della Canal in Charlotte.

Border Patrol agents are expected in Charlotte on Saturday or early next week.