In a surprising turn of events, federal agents carried out search warrants at the home of Oakland's Mayor, Sheng Thao, and several properties connected to individuals associated with a recycling company contracted by the city. The raid was part of a larger operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, IRS, and United States Postal Inspection Service.

The search warrants were executed across four locations in Oakland, with the FBI investigating possible misconduct but leaving the exact nature of the investigation undisclosed. Neighbors reported being awakened by the sounds of FBI agents at Mayor Thao’s residence early in the morning, although it was confirmed that the Mayor herself was not seen but rather her boyfriend standing in the driveway.

Authorities spent several hours conducting the search, and NBC Bay Area's cameras captured agents removing at least four boxes and two plastic bins from the Mayor's home. Renowned civil rights attorney and former legal adviser to a previous Oakland Mayor, Jean Quann, Dan Siegel emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions and clarified that no accusations or evidence of wrongdoing against Mayor Thao have been made so far. The search might be aimed at uncovering potential misconduct by someone other than the Mayor herself.

The FBI raid on Mayor Thao's home has caused a stir in the community, with calls for her resignation amid concerns about the impact this investigation may have on the city's reputation. The Oakland NAACP issued a statement, questioning the Mayor's ability to effectively lead while being scrutinized by the FBI. They urged her to step down immediately to avoid the costly and time-consuming recall process, emphasizing the need for focused, committed leadership to address Oakland's pressing issues.

City Councilmember Carroll Fife expressed surprise at not being informed about the investigation, highlighting the negative narratives about Oakland that could be exacerbated by this incident. Fife voiced concerns about the distraction this investigation could pose to the essential work necessary to serve the residents of Oakland diligently.

Simultaneously, the FBI also searched two other properties in the Oakland Hills. One of the homes, located on Skyline Boulevard, is linked to David Duong, the CEO of California Waste Solutions, the recycling company under contract with the city. The Duong family, including Andy Duong, the son of David Duong, has had previous connections with Mayor Thao and has been involved in an ongoing investigation into campaign donation violations.

The FBI has not disclosed any connections between the searches conducted on Thursday, leaving uncertainty as to whether they are linked or unrelated. NBC Bay Area attempted to reach out to California Waste Solutions for comment but received no response at the time of reporting.

As this investigation unfolds, the public remains in anticipation of further details regarding the warrants and the individuals being targeted. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for both Mayor Sheng Thao and the city of Oakland as a whole.