Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao's home was raided by the FBI early Thursday morning, escalating tensions as she faces a recall effort amid rising crime rates and criticism of her policing policies.
FBI agents raided the home of Oakland, California, Mayor Sheng Thao early Thursday morning, multiple outlets reported.
Federal authorities executed warrants at the mayor’s residence in the Lincoln Highlands area around 5:30 a.m., according to CBS News Bay Area.
In a statement to CBS, the FBI said it was "unable to provide additional information at this time."
The raid also involved the IRS and U.S. Postal Service, a source told ABC News’ Dan Noyes.
Agents remained at the scene until about 9:45 a.m., CBS News Bay Area reported. A San Francisco FBI spokesperson indicated that the agency was conducting "court-authorized law enforcement" at Thao’s home, according to KRON4. Multiple FBI agents were seen leaving the residence carrying boxes and bags around 10:07 a.m.
Mayor Thao is currently facing a recall effort by residents concerned about rising crime rates. The recall group claims crime has surged after Thao dismantled parts of the city’s police department. “Lives have been lost, property destroyed, businesses have shut down, and fear and collective trauma are daily occurrences for Oaklanders. We, the concerned citizens, therefore, demand your recall for the sake of our city’s future,” the group said in a statement.
The FBI and Mayor Thao’s office have not yet responded to requests for comment.
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