False claims regarding immigration sweeps in Los Angeles emerged online amidst anxiety from local wildfires.
The rumors originated from an unknown sender claiming to have seen ICE agents in various neighborhoods and nearby cities.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed no large-scale enforcement operations are occurring in Southern California.
City officials in Lakewood, where some rumors suggested ICE activity, stated they are unaware of any immigration raids taking place.
DHS emphasized it does not conduct immigration enforcement during emergencies, assuring assistance to all individuals regardless of immigration status.