The New Bedford Light reports that two longtime seafood workers — one with serious health issues — were going about their routine Monday when they were arrested and taken from their community.

Federal agents arrested Marvin Yobani Chitic Us and Justo Rufino Chitic Us just before their early-morning shift at Oceans Fleet. One of them, Marvin Chitic Us, is awaiting a kidney transplant and requires dialysis three times a week. Marvin and Justo, who are not related despite sharing a last name, have no criminal records in Massachusetts and are known for their steady work and low profile.

Their families were left searching for answers after the men vanished. Marvin eventually called from detention in Burlington, saying agents denied him access to his medication. Justo has not been heard from. Advocates and coworkers are sounding the alarm, especially about Marvin’s health. Community leaders are calling the arrests a human rights issue in a city where Guatemalan immigrants have long been targeted.

Including Marvin and Justo, there have been at least 24 people arrested by immigration agents in New Bedford since President Donald Trump took office in January, The Light newspaper confirmed.

Get the full story in the New Bedford Light ⇒

Scallop fishing vessels. Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Dvora Hart