Federal immigration authorities detained 48 workers and arrested two company officials during a raid at Burnstein von Seelen Precision Castings in Abbeville, South Carolina, on June 3, 2026. This operation, named "Operation Ghost Story," was the result of a years-long investigation into the employment of illegal immigrants. The detained workers are being investigated for potential immigration violations.
Company officials, including plant manager Christopher Ramey and human resources coordinator Sandy Willis, face criminal charges including conspiracy, identity fraud related to employment, and forgery. Four additional individuals were charged with providing fake identification documents to workers. One of these individuals, Jose Luis Aguilar Mejia, is currently at large.
The operation involved collaboration between ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and local law enforcement agencies. South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark A. Keel stated that the raid was the outcome of a thorough investigation. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson emphasized the state's commitment to enforcing immigration and identity fraud laws, warning that those unlawfully aiding illegal immigrants will face prosecution.
Burnstein von Seelen Precision Castings produces precision components for major companies including General Electric, General Dynamics, and Siemens.
