BECKLEY, W.Va. (WOWK) — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) worked with West Virginia State Police to arrest 60 illegal immigrants in West Virginia since ICE operations began in the state back in September.

According to a release from the Office of Governor Patrick Morrisey, nine individuals were arrested by members of the West Virginia State Police Turnpike, the West Virginia Public Service Commission, ICE and DEA at a traffic detail on I-77 exit 48 leading onto US Route 19 northbound on Bridge Day, Oct. 18. Another nine arrests were made during a detail on US Route 19 near I-79.

On Oct. 12, an operation on the West Virginia Turnpike resulted in the arrest of five illegal immigrants

“My administration continues to take aggressive action to combat illegal immigration with the support of President Donald Trump, Secretary Kristi Noem, and ICE,” Gov. Morrisey said. “Our intent is to take any legal action necessary to protect West Virginians. If you are here illegally, if you are caught breaking our laws, if you are smuggling drugs – you will be arrested, you will be tried, and if found guilty, you will pay a heavy price.” 

Gov. Morrisey shared in a previous release that 37 other individuals were arrested over the past month for a sum total of 60 arrests.

“Working tirelessly through the current federal funding lapse, ICE ERO Philadelphia remains fully engaged with our West Virginia partners”, said Acting Philadelphia Field Office Director, David O’Neill. “Through the 287(g) partnership our joint efforts have already led to the arrests of 60 illegal aliens, and we will continue working together throughout the shutdown to safeguard the United States of America.” 

ICE operations in West Virginia began on September 22, 2025, with the implementation of the 287(g) program, which facilitates the partnership between ICE and West Virginia authorities.