Fresno City Councilmember Miguel Arias is warning that an immigration raid could take place at a popular gathering spot this weekend.

“We have learned that this weekend, ICE is planning to engage in a massive immigration raid at the Cherry (Avenue) Auction in Fresno,” Arias said during Thursday’s council meeting.

“So I would advise our immigrant community that they should stay away from the Cherry Auction this weekend as they would put themselves and their families in the most vulnerable position to be picked up and taken out of country, without due process, as has been clearly documented in our state.”

Arias did not cite the source of his information, and GV Wire could not independently verify that any raids are planned in Fresno in coming days.

Irvine Councilmember Warns of ICE Raids There

On Thursday morning, Irvine City Councilmember Kathleen Treseder warned that ICE would be “in 8 to 10 locations across Irvine today. If you or someone you know is undocumented or vulnerable, we strongly encourage staying home today.”

Later on Thursday, Irvine officials said that ICE agents conducted targeted immigration enforcement operations at several locations.

“It has been confirmed that these activities are focused on locating specific individuals under investigation for criminal activity who also have immigration law-related violations,” the city’s statement said.

Auction Responds to Arias

In a response on Instagram. Cherry Avenue Auction said it had no knowledge of a pending raid on its property and also criticized Arias.

“We find it puzzling and offensive that a city councilmember would claim to possess such information. We are further concerned that Mr. Arias may be willfully interfering in a federal action involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” the auction said.

“We encourage our loyal customers to continue enjoying the vibrant experience of our open-air market. We urge the community not to be swayed by fear or misinformation being circulated through various channels.”

Similar rumors spread in January. The auction responded on Facebook that time.

The swap meet operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays, 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at 4640 S. Cherry Ave. in southwest Fresno.

What ICE Says

An ICE spokesperson said the agency doesn’t talk publicly about its planned operations ahead of time.

“To ensure the safety of our personnel, ICE does not confirm or discuss the existence or status of operations,” the spokesperson said. “The agency publicly announces the results of operations when appropriate. As part of its routine operations, ICE arrests aliens who commit crimes and other individuals who have violated our nation’s immigration laws. All aliens in violation of U.S. immigration law may be subject to arrest, detention and, if found removable by final order, removal from the United States, regardless of nationality.”