Vendors and shoppers are primarily separated from Santa Fe Springs Swap Meat after immigration officials detained people at a venue in southeastern Los Angeles County over the weekend.
Swap Meet Operators said there was no notice of operation, but witnesses said about 40 U.S. Border Patrol agents were involved. Homeland Security officials said the two were detained at a location just off the 5th Expressway, based on removal procedures.
On Tuesday, a video of the operation’s new US Border Patrol was posted on social media. The video shows an agent of a tactical device that arrives at a swap meet and appears to have at least one person in custody.
Usually, busy markets were sparsely attended on Tuesdays.
“Every place is full and this car park here is full of capacity,” said Henry Santiago, a longtime vendor of the regular scene at Swap Meet. “These are hardworking people who do no harm to anyone.”
Only a few vendors have returned to the nearly empty venue this week. For some, staying away is not an option they can afford.
“This is my only income,” said vendor Juan Vilgas. “If I don’t come to work, I don’t expect someone to go to my house and give me money.”
The new video appears to show the immigration operation at Santa Fe Springs Swap Meat. The video aired today in LA on Sunday, June 15th, 2025.
Other events planned at the location in the coming days include the “The Doors” tribute concert on Friday and other weekend music performances. With over 475 vendor space, Swap Meet also features live bands every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
NBCLA has reached out to Santa Fe Spring Swap Meet Organizer for comment. The NBCLA also asked customs and border patrols to learn more about weekend operations.
The operation unfolded as immigration enforcement activities continued in the Los Angeles area as part of the Trump administration’s deportation plan.
The administration highlights arrests that include undocumented individuals convicted of violent crimes. Those caught up in the nationwide attacks include asylum seekers, those who have continued visas and immigrants waiting for a day in immigration courts.
Recent immigrant raids have led to days of protest in parts of downtown Los Angeles.
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