A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) immigration raid in Los Angeles is drawing new attention after video captured federal agents jumping out of the back of a Penske rental truck during a sweep at a Home Depot parking lot. The truck rental company has called the use of its vehicle in the operation “improper” and said it was unaware the truck would be used in that way.
The raid, codenamed “Trojan Horse,” led to the arrest of 16 illegal aliens from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, according to a DHS spokesperson. Officials confirmed that the individuals were taken into custody by Border Patrol agents during a targeted operation focused on criminal illegal aliens.
Footage of the incident showed migrants scattering as agents exited the cargo area of the yellow Penske truck. Penske responded swiftly, issuing a statement clarifying its rental policies. “Penske strictly prohibits the transportation of people in the cargo area of its vehicles under any circumstances,” the company said. “Penske will reach out to DHS and reinforce its policy to avoid improper use of its vehicles in the future.”
The company emphasized that it had not authorized federal officials to use its trucks in this manner and was not notified in advance about the operation.
Despite Penske’s objection, DHS remains firm in its mission. “Federal law enforcement will continue utilizing all resources to arrest criminal illegal aliens and keep Americans safe,” a spokesperson said. The agency did not apologize for its tactics, stating clearly that immigration enforcement operations will proceed as needed to uphold U.S. law.
The raid underscores growing tensions between private businesses and federal agencies over enforcement strategies. DHS has not indicated whether it will adjust future operations to address the concerns raised by Penske.
