The Department of Homeland Security has clarified details surrounding a recent search operation in Oklahoma City carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The search, targeting a property linked to human smuggling activities, took place on April 24, 2025. It aimed to disrupt operations of a transitional human and drug smuggling organization allegedly moving people from various countries through the United States.
A Senior DHS official stated, "The April 24 Oklahoma ICE operation was a lawful, court-authorized action explicitly targeting a property, that was a hub for human smuggling, not specific individuals, as falsely suggested by media reports."
Before and during the execution of the search warrant, agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) verified utility records, confirming that a gang member from the Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization was associated with the property. The search warrant, based on an affidavit over 80 pages long, allowed for the seizure of electronic devices and documents independent of any occupant’s presence.
The official clarified, "The warrant targeted the property itself, not specific individuals, and its execution was not contingent on the presence of any person." The operation involved support from Oklahoma state police and aimed at gathering critical evidence against the smuggling network.
KOCO 5 news reported that the home, raided by ICE, is owned by Cidia Marleny Lima Lopez, a central figure in the investigation, which also resulted in the arrest of eight Guatemalan nationals affiliated with the "Lima Lopez Transnational Criminal Organization." Charges against these individuals include drug-related offenses, fraud, money laundering, and re-entry to the United States after deportation.
The Department reiterated the legality and necessity of this operation to combat illegal activities affecting American communities, highlighting that the investigation began well before any modifications in ICE policies. The official concluded by pointing out this operation's significance against a dangerous smuggling network.
KOCO 5 added that Lima Lopez owns another property in Oklahoma City, and the searches are part of an extended investigation, not linked to recent immigration policy adjustments.
"Records show that she owns the home that was raided as well as another one in Oklahoma City," KOCO added. "Eight arrests were made in that investigation, which was years in the making and not part of any new immigration enforcement."
This ongoing investigation continues to explore the extent of the occupants' involvement in these smuggling operations.
