ICE Arrests 13 Illegal Immigrants Outside Pennsylvania Driver’s License Center

Kittanning, Pa. – On Friday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained 13 individuals outside the West Kittanning PennDOT driver‑license facility in Armstrong County. The operation followed a call to the East Franklin Police Department after local residents reported an unusually large crowd gathering at the center.

Who Was Arrested

The Department of Homeland Security identified the detainees as “illegal aliens” from Central Asian nations, specifically Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan.

The Arrest

One suspect resisted and allegedly assaulted a police officer before being subdued. No injuries were reported among officers.

Context

The incident adds to a noticeable surge in ICE activity in the Pittsburgh region, where immigration‑related arrests have risen sharply compared with the previous year. Local officials have not disclosed whether the group was there for routine license renewals or for other reasons.

Federal Response

A DHS spokesperson confirmed the arrests and said the agency acted in coordination with local law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.