OHP and ICE Target Truck Drivers Along I-40

Joint Enforcement Sweep Leads to Dozens of Detentions

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) troopers carried out a large-scale operation this week along Interstate 40 in Sequoyah County. The focus: commercial truck drivers who were not in compliance with federal and state laws.

A Governor’s Office spokesperson confirmed that dozens of individuals were detained at a Tulsa holding facility. Officials also reported that dozens of 18-wheelers were towed to impound lots as part of the enforcement sweep.

OHP-ICE Effort Across Oklahoma Highways

The Sequoyah County operation mirrors a similar OHP-ICE collaboration recently held in western Oklahoma, which resulted in 125 people taken into custody. These coordinated actions, according to state officials, are designed to strengthen roadway safety and ensure that all drivers operating in Oklahoma are properly licensed and documented.

Authorities said the latest effort included roadside inspections, compliance checks, and vehicle verification stops. Any violations—ranging from immigration issues to expired permits—were met with enforcement actions.

Governor’s Office Defends the Operation

The Governor’s spokesperson said the state will continue to cooperate with federal partners to enforce the law. “Our goal is to ensure public safety and uphold regulations that protect Oklahomans,” the spokesperson said.

Supporters argue the crackdown improves highway safety by removing unqualified or illegal operators. However, civil rights advocates voiced concern about potential profiling and the economic impact on drivers who depend on long-haul trucking for their livelihood.

Local Impact and Industry Response

The Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office said they assisted in traffic control and ensured safe impound operations. Trucking groups expressed frustration about the timing, saying sudden enforcement actions create fear among legitimate drivers.

Still, state officials said they intend to continue similar initiatives across Oklahoma to maintain compliance and security.

📌 MORE OKLAHOMA NEWS