HOUSTON -- Dozens protested against an immigration raid on an east Houston exporting company where 160 people were arrested, KPRC Local 2 reported Thursday.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials said the raid at Action Rags USA Wednesday was a success. Some called the bust into question, claiming some of the workers panicked and were hurt.

Protesters outside Mickey Leland Federal Building in downtown Houston carried signs and chanted slogans. They said they were especially outraged because 60 to 70 percent of the people arrested were women.

"These families cannot be separated," Aura Espinosa said. "I'm talking for all those women that cannot talk."

"Our question to the federal government is very simple," said Mike Espinosa with Houston Justice for Janitors. "How does putting a working woman in jail keep this country safer? That is our question."

Officials said the raid was designed to send the message to employers that it's against the law to hire illegal immigrants.

"It's a criminal violation to be in the country illegally. They are here illegally," agent-in-charge Bob Rutt said. "They are illegal aliens and we will enforce the law on the books."

Investigators said none of the company's owners or managers was arrested. The investigation is ongoing and charges could be filed later.

Protesters said ICE should be held responsible for the injuries the workers suffered during the raid.