BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- Federal immigration officials released a statement over its ongoing operations taking place in Kern County this week. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesperson said Wednesday: "The U.S. Border Patrol conducts targeted enforcement arrests of individuals involved in smuggling throughout our areas of operation as part of our efforts to dismantle transnational criminal organizations." Immigration enforcement operations taking place in Bakersfield area, local officials say Border Patrol agents have been seen in Bakersfield and surrounding areas this week in its ongoing operations. Agents have been seen stopping vehicles along Kern County highways and outside a gas station and market in Bakersfield. A witness told 17 News on Tuesday she saw agents apprehend multiple people and placed them into vans. Also, advocates are hosting forums this week to advise anyone stopped by immigration officials of their rights. Check back for updates.