Penske Truck Rental has issued a stern warning to President Trump's Department of Homeland Security (DHS) following the "improper use" of one of its vehicles during a recent operation in Los Angeles.
The incident, which unfolded near MacArthur Park, involved DHS agents emerging from a Penske moving truck to make multiple arrests, as reported by Fox LA. The operation, captured on video and widely shared online, has sparked a response from Penske, who expressed concern over the unauthorized use of their branded truck.
According to the Daily Caller, Penske Truck Rental released a statement addressing the situation, emphasizing their strict policy against transporting people in the cargo area of their vehicles. "Penske Truck Rental is aware of recent reports and videos regarding a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operation in Los Angeles.
Penske strictly prohibits the transportation of people in the cargo area of its vehicles under any circumstances," the statement declared. The company further noted that they had not been informed of the truck's involvement in the operation and had not given authorization for its use. Penske plans to contact DHS to reiterate their policy and prevent future misuse of their vehicles.
The DHS operation was reportedly aimed at addressing the influence of the MS-13 gang in the area, which officials described as having a "chokehold" on the community. The operation resulted in the detention of 16 illegal migrants from Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli took to social media to underscore the federal government's commitment to enforcing immigration laws, stating, "For those who thought immigration enforcement had stopped in Southern California, think again. The enforcement of federal law is not negotiable, and there are no sanctuaries from the reach of the federal government."
This enforcement action follows a period of unrest in downtown Los Angeles, where anti-U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protests in June led to significant property damage, including vandalism, looting, and burning vehicles. The city has incurred millions in damages as a result.
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