Facing backlash over Alex Pretti’s killing, President Donald Trump promised a “honourable and honest” investigation, expressed sympathy for the family, distanced himself from Stephen Miller’s remarks, shifted Minnesota command to Tom Homan, and announced the withdrawal of some federal agents.

'I love his family': Trump assures 'honourable' probe in Alex Pretti shooting, but blames him for 'carrying a gun'

Amid mounting pressure on US administration over the killing of an US citizen by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota, US President Donald Trump has defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. When asked if she is being removed from her position, Trump responded with a plain "no.” Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump also praised Noem stating that she is doing a good job. Trump said, “I think she’s doing a very good job.” Trump had earlier refused to answer if federal agents acted appropriately during Alex Pretti shooting. Trump spent nearly two hours in a closed-door Oval Office meeting on Monday night with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her senior adviser Corey Lewandowski, according to several reports.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blinks-on-ice-crackdown-after-backlash-on-alex-pretti-killing-pulls-some-agents-from-minnesota-will-controversial-bovino-leave-1769471315493">Trump pulls some ICE agents from Minnesota after backlash on Alex Pretti killing</a>&nbsp;Trump on Sunday (Jan 25), in a telephonic conversation with The Wall Street Journal, said that his administration is reviewing everything about Pretti shooting. On Monday (Jan 26), Trump held telephonic conversation with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and said that his border czar, Tom Homan, would meet with Frey “to continue the discussion”. He also assured that some federal agents will leave Minnesota. Trump had also blamed the Democrats for chaos and loss of American citizens' lives.<h2>Greg Bovino removed?</h2>Reports also emerged that Senior Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, who is at the centre of controversy around Alex Pretti shooting, is being relieved of his duties. DHS clarified calling him 'key part of the President's team'. However, just a day ago, Trump handed over the command in Minnesota to "border czar" Tom Homan, while Bovino is reportedly was sent back to previous sector in El Centro, California. CNN also reported that DHS has suspended Bovino's access to his social media accounts.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-border-patrol-commander-faces-flak-for-nazi-style-coat-1769538064773/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-border-patrol-commander-faces-flak-for-nazi-style-coat-1769538064773/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Death of Alex Pretti and Renee Good</h2>Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital and a licensed gun owner, was shot at least 10 times by Border Patrol agents on Nicollet Avenue. While Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and White House advisor Stephen Miller claimed Pretti was a "domestic terrorist" who approached agents with a handgun to "massacre" them, videos verified by major outlets show Pretti holding a cell phone while trying to assist a woman pushed to the ground by agents.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-about-hating-trump-charlie-kirk-s-2018-post-resurfaces-after-alex-pretti-shooting-1769324732395">'About hating Trump': Charlie Kirk's 2018 post resurfaces after Alex Pretti shooting</a>&nbsp;The incident was second such killing by ICE agents in Minnesota. Weeks ago, Renee Good, 37-year-old US citizen, was fatally shot by an ICE agent, identified as Jonathan Ross, while she was in her car on Portland Avenue. While DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused Good of "stalking" agents and "weaponizing" her vehicle to run them over, video evidence and eyewitness accounts suggested that Good was attempting to maneuver her car away from the agents after dropping her son off at school.

Under fire over the killing of US citizen Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minnesota, President Donald Trump defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, praised her performance, and ruled out her removal, while ordering a review and pulling some federal agents from the state.

Amid mounting pressure on US administration over the killing of an US citizen by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota, US President Donald Trump has defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. When asked if she is being removed from her position, Trump responded with a plain "no.” Speaking to reporters on the South Lawn of the White House, Trump also praised Noem stating that she is doing a good job. Trump said, “I think she’s doing a very good job.” Trump had earlier refused to answer if federal agents acted appropriately during Alex Pretti shooting. Trump spent nearly two hours in a closed-door Oval Office meeting on Monday night with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her senior adviser Corey Lewandowski, according to several reports. Also Read: Trump pulls some ICE agents from Minnesota after backlash on Alex Pretti killing Trump on Sunday (Jan 25), in a telephonic conversation with The Wall Street Journal, said that his administration is reviewing everything about Pretti shooting. On Monday (Jan 26), Trump held telephonic conversation with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and said that his border czar, Tom Homan, would meet with Frey “to continue the discussion”. He also assured that some federal agents will leave Minnesota. Trump had also blamed the Democrats for chaos and loss of American citizens' lives. Greg Bovino removed? Reports also emerged that Senior Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, who is at the centre of controversy around Alex Pretti shooting, is being relieved of his duties. DHS clarified calling him 'key part of the President's team'. However, just a day ago, Trump handed over the command in Minnesota to "border czar" Tom Homan, while Bovino is reportedly was sent back to previous sector in El Centro, California. CNN also reported that DHS has suspended Bovino's access to his social media accounts. https://www.wionews.com/videos/u-s-border-patrol-commander-faces-flak-for-nazi-style-coat-1769538064773/embed Death of Alex Pretti and Renee Good Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse at the Minneapolis VA hospital and a licensed gun owner, was shot at least 10 times by Border Patrol agents on Nicollet Avenue. While Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and White House advisor Stephen Miller claimed Pretti was a "domestic terrorist" who approached agents with a handgun to "massacre" them, videos verified by major outlets show Pretti holding a cell phone while trying to assist a woman pushed to the ground by agents. Also Read: 'About hating Trump': Charlie Kirk's 2018 post resurfaces after Alex Pretti shooting The incident was second such killing by ICE agents in Minnesota. Weeks ago, Renee Good, 37-year-old US citizen, was fatally shot by an ICE agent, identified as Jonathan Ross, while she was in her car on Portland Avenue. While DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused Good of "stalking" agents and "weaponizing" her vehicle to run them over, video evidence and eyewitness accounts suggested that Good was attempting to maneuver her car away from the agents after dropping her son off at school.

Under fire over the killing of US citizen Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minnesota, President Donald Trump defended Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, praised her performance, and ruled out her removal, while ordering a review and pulling some federal agents from the state.

Will DHS head Kristi Noem be removed amid Alex Pretti shooting row? Trump's one-word response

Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino, linked to the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, faces scrutiny over aggressive enforcement tactics. While reports say he may leave Minnesota, DHS insists he remains part of Trump’s team amid ongoing backlash.

Who is Greg Bovino? Trump's controversial border patrol officer at centre of Alex Pretti shooting row — Has be been fired?

The Donald Trump administration on Thursday (Dec 4) sharply reduced the duration refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants can hold valid work permits in the US. The government has dramatically reduced the period from five years to 18 months. This change marks the latest step in the administration's sweeping immigration crackdown. The decision came just two days after the government halted immigration applications for citizens from 19 countries that are already under travel restrictions.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-benjamin-netanyahu-shrugs-off-zohran-mamdani-s-threat-to-enforce-icc-arrest-warrant-says-he-ll-visit-nyc-anyway-1764826042335">Netanyahu shrugs off Mamdani's threat to enforce ICC arrest warrant, says he'll visit NYC anyway</a><h2>Eliminating threat to 'public safety'</h2>Joseph Edlow, director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that the Washington shooting of two National Guard members was a key factor behind the shift. Two US National Guard soldiers were critically injured on Wednesday (Nov 26) in a targeted shooting just blocks from the White House. An Afghan man who arrived in the United States through a resettlement program after the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan was arrested over the shooting. One of the National Guard members succumbed to her injuries later.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sabrina-carpenter-blasts-white-house-after-her-song-juno-pops-up-in-ice-s-evil-and-disgusting-video-1764749443308">Sabrina Carpenter blasts White House after her song 'Juno' pops up in ICE's 'evil and disgusting' video</a>Edlow said that shorter work permit durations would allow more frequent security reviews and help ensure that people authorised to work in the country do not pose a threat. ""Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorisation will&nbsp;ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies."He added that the attack underscored the need for tighter and more regular vetting. "After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation's capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it's even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens."<h2>Will you be affected by the US work permit reduction?</h2>The new limit will apply broadly to refugees, individuals who have been granted asylum and migrants whose deportations have been postponed by the government.

Trump cuts migrant work permits from five years to 18 months, tightening immigration rules days after freezing applications from 19 countries. 

The Donald Trump administration on Thursday (Dec 4) sharply reduced the duration refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants can hold valid work permits in the US. The government has dramatically reduced the period from five years to 18 months. This change marks the latest step in the administration's sweeping immigration crackdown. The decision came just two days after the government halted immigration applications for citizens from 19 countries that are already under travel restrictions. Also read | Netanyahu shrugs off Mamdani's threat to enforce ICC arrest warrant, says he'll visit NYC anyway Eliminating threat to 'public safety' Joseph Edlow, director of US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), said that the Washington shooting of two National Guard members was a key factor behind the shift. Two US National Guard soldiers were critically injured on Wednesday (Nov 26) in a targeted shooting just blocks from the White House. An Afghan man who arrived in the United States through a resettlement program after the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan was arrested over the shooting. One of the National Guard members succumbed to her injuries later. Also read | Sabrina Carpenter blasts White House after her song 'Juno' pops up in ICE's 'evil and disgusting' video Edlow said that shorter work permit durations would allow more frequent security reviews and help ensure that people authorised to work in the country do not pose a threat. ""Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorisation will ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies." He added that the attack underscored the need for tighter and more regular vetting. "After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation's capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it's even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens." Will you be affected by the US work permit reduction? The new limit will apply broadly to refugees, individuals who have been granted asylum and migrants whose deportations have been postponed by the government.

Trump cuts migrant work permits from five years to 18 months, tightening immigration rules days after freezing applications from 19 countries.&nbsp;

Trump tightens immigration again, cuts refugee work permits to just 18 months

The US on Tuesday (Dec 2) paused all immigration applications, including green card and US citizenship processing, filed by immigrants from 19 non-European countries. The list includes Afghanistan and Somalia, among other nations. The Trump administration cited concerns over national security and public safety to justify its decision. The pause applies to people from 19 countries that were already subjected to a partial travel ban in June, placing further restrictions on immigration. As a part of its immigration crackdown, US State Department in November announced an immediate pause on visa issuance for Afghan passport holders.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-wants-trump-to-impose-full-travel-ban-on-countries-sending-killers-leeches-to-us-1764669673261">Kristi Noem wants Trump to impose ‘full travel ban’ on countries sending</a>…<h2>Check if your country on the list?</h2>The countries on the list are as follows:&nbsp;<ul><li>Afghanistan</li><li>Burma (Myanmar)</li><li>Chad</li><li>Republic of the Congo</li><li>Equatorial Guinea</li><li>Eritrea</li><li>Haiti</li><li>Iran</li><li>Libya</li><li>Somalia</li><li>Sudan</li><li>Yemen</li><li>Burundi</li><li>Cuba</li><li>Laos</li><li>Sierra Leone</li><li>Togo</li><li>Turkmenistan</li><li>Venezuela</li></ul>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-reverse-migration-trump-threatens-to-suspend-immigration-from-third-world-what-happened-with-the-muslim-ban-of-2017-1764314680302">'REVERSE MIGRATION': Trump threatens to suspend immigration from ‘Third World’. What happened with the ‘Muslim Ban’ of 2017?</a>&nbsp;The official memorandum cites the attack on US National Guard members in Washington last week in which an Afghan man has been arrested as a suspect. One member of the National Guard was killed and another was critically wounded in the shooting. Trump has also stepped up rhetoric against Somalis in recent days, calling them “garbage” and saying “we don’t want them in our country.” The new policy places a hold on pending applications and mandates that all immigrants from the list of countries “undergo a thorough re-review process, including a potential interview and, if necessary, a re-interview, to fully assess all national security and public safety threats.” The memorandum cited several recent crimes suspected to have been committed by immigrants, including the National Guard attack. Since returning to office in January, Trump has aggressively prioritised immigration enforcement, sending federal agents to major US cities and turning away asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Trump administration has halted all immigration processing — including green cards and citizenship — for applicants from 19 non-European countries, citing security risks after a recent attack. Applications will undergo new screening

The US on Tuesday (Dec 2) paused all immigration applications, including green card and US citizenship processing, filed by immigrants from 19 non-European countries. The list includes Afghanistan and Somalia, among other nations. The Trump administration cited concerns over national security and public safety to justify its decision. The pause applies to people from 19 countries that were already subjected to a partial travel ban in June, placing further restrictions on immigration. As a part of its immigration crackdown, US State Department in November announced an immediate pause on visa issuance for Afghan passport holders. Also read: Kristi Noem wants Trump to impose ‘full travel ban’ on countries sending… Check if your country on the list? The countries on the list are as follows: Afghanistan Burma (Myanmar) Chad Republic of the Congo Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Haiti Iran Libya Somalia Sudan Yemen Burundi Cuba Laos Sierra Leone Togo Turkmenistan Venezuela Also read: 'REVERSE MIGRATION': Trump threatens to suspend immigration from ‘Third World’. What happened with the ‘Muslim Ban’ of 2017? The official memorandum cites the attack on US National Guard members in Washington last week in which an Afghan man has been arrested as a suspect. One member of the National Guard was killed and another was critically wounded in the shooting. Trump has also stepped up rhetoric against Somalis in recent days, calling them “garbage” and saying “we don’t want them in our country.” The new policy places a hold on pending applications and mandates that all immigrants from the list of countries “undergo a thorough re-review process, including a potential interview and, if necessary, a re-interview, to fully assess all national security and public safety threats.” The memorandum cited several recent crimes suspected to have been committed by immigrants, including the National Guard attack. Since returning to office in January, Trump has aggressively prioritised immigration enforcement, sending federal agents to major US cities and turning away asylum seekers at the US-Mexico border.

The Trump administration has halted all immigration processing — including green cards and citizenship — for applicants from 19 non-European countries, citing security risks after a recent attack. Applications will undergo new screening

Trump pauses all immigration applications from THESE 19 countries - Is your country on the list: CHECK here

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 27) announced that he has authorised the deployment of troops in the northwestern US city of Portland, Oregon and at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country.“At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He added, “I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary,” without specifying what he meant by “full force”.Trump had earlier mobilised the National Guard to Los Angeles and Washington to combat illegal immigration. He had also warned of deploying troops to Chicago. Deployment of troops is also expected in Memphis, Tennessee.The US president’s announcement comes a day after a deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Texas. In the incident, one detainee was killed while two others were injured. The federal officials have said that the gunman, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, targeted ICE agents from a nearby rooftop.The shooting incident happened weeks after the assassination of Trump ally Charlie Kirk, following which the US president declared the left-wing Antifa movement a “domestic terrorist group.” Trump has blamed the “radical left” for the political violence in the country.Portland, the largest city in Oregon, has witnessed several months of protest at ICE facilities over the Trump administration’s crackdown against “illegal aliens.” The city has also been the site of major clashes during Trump’s first term after the police killing of George Floyd in May 2020, which sparked massive racial justice protests.&nbsp;

The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 27) announced that he has authorised the deployment of troops in the northwestern US city of Portland, Oregon and at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country. “At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He added, “I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary,” without specifying what he meant by “full force”. Trump had earlier mobilised the National Guard to Los Angeles and Washington to combat illegal immigration. He had also warned of deploying troops to Chicago. Deployment of troops is also expected in Memphis, Tennessee. The US president’s announcement comes a day after a deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Texas. In the incident, one detainee was killed while two others were injured. The federal officials have said that the gunman, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, targeted ICE agents from a nearby rooftop. The shooting incident happened weeks after the assassination of Trump ally Charlie Kirk, following which the US president declared the left-wing Antifa movement a “domestic terrorist group.” Trump has blamed the “radical left” for the political violence in the country. Portland, the largest city in Oregon, has witnessed several months of protest at ICE facilities over the Trump administration’s crackdown against “illegal aliens.” The city has also been the site of major clashes during Trump’s first term after the police killing of George Floyd in May 2020, which sparked massive racial justice protests.

The move, which he said has been taken at the request of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, comes amid the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigration in the country.

‘To protect war ravaged Portland’: Trump orders deployment of troops to another US city, says Kristi Noem requested it

Harjit Kaur, a 73-year-old Sikh woman who was deported from the United States after being there for over 30 years, claimed that she was mistreated after she was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials earlier this month. Kaur said that she was barely given food she could eat, given that she is vegetarian, and was given no medicine.Speaking to the media after her return to India, Kaur said, “I couldn’t even eat the food they gave because I am a vegetarian. They served beef, which I don’t eat,” PTI reportedKaur described that she was moved to various locations in the US before she was deported to New Delhi. She is currently living at her sister’s house in Mohali.“I was arrested on September 8, and taken to Fresno. From there, I was taken to Bakersfield, where I stayed for 8-10 days. I was then taken to Arizona, from where I was sent to Delhi in a flight that took 18 to 19 hours. From there, my brother-in-law picked me up,” she told ANI.When asked whether she was provided food and medicines during the flight, she said that she was only given “some chips and two cookies,” adding that “They didn’t provide any medicine or anything else.”Talking about her future, she said that she can’t do anything and that only her children can do anything about it now.“My children over there will do something,” she said. “I cannot do anything.” When asked if she would like to return to the US, Kaur replied, “Definitely. My entire family is out there.”Kaur was among the 132 deportees on the plane, including 15 Colombian nationals. “There were two good officers on board who did not cuff me, although the other deportees were cuffed and shackled,” she said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Mohali: Harjit Kaur, the elderly woman from Punjab who was deported from the US, says, &quot;Their behaviour was very bad. I was arrested on 8 September... I was arrested and taken to Bakersfield, where I stayed for 8-10 days. I was then taken to Arizona, from where I was… <a href="https://t.co/Ggt6IkpQQM">pic.twitter.com/Ggt6IkpQQM</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1971846578651402373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What her lawyer said</h2>According to her lawyer, Deepak Ahluwalia, she was not given an opportunity to say goodbye to her family before she was deported to India. Kaur was held at a facility briefly, where she was forced to sleep on the floor with just a blanket. “She was unable to get up as she had a double knee replacement surgery. She was also denied a shower the entire time,” Ahluwalia said.“Prior to the flight on Monday, she and some other detainees were given wet wipes and told to just clean up before boarding the plane from Georgia to Armenia. From Armenia, she came to Delhi on an ICE chartered plane,” he said. “Thankfully, they did not cuff her, a process followed earlier. One officer was apparently trying to cuff her, but another said to avoid the process, considering her age.”Kaur migrated to the US in 1992 with her two sons. Her asylum claim was denied in 2012, after which she remained under ICE supervision. According to her family, she was repeatedly told that she could stay in the US until her travel documents were arranged by Indian authorities. They added that she had “faithfully reported” to ICE in San Francisco every six months for the last 13 years and has been paying taxes.

Kaur described that she was moved to various locations in the US before she was deported to New Delhi. She is currently living at her sister’s house in Mohali.

Harjit Kaur, a 73-year-old Sikh woman who was deported from the United States after being there for over 30 years, claimed that she was mistreated after she was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials earlier this month. Kaur said that she was barely given food she could eat, given that she is vegetarian, and was given no medicine. Speaking to the media after her return to India, Kaur said, “I couldn’t even eat the food they gave because I am a vegetarian. They served beef, which I don’t eat,” PTI reported Kaur described that she was moved to various locations in the US before she was deported to New Delhi. She is currently living at her sister’s house in Mohali. “I was arrested on September 8, and taken to Fresno. From there, I was taken to Bakersfield, where I stayed for 8-10 days. I was then taken to Arizona, from where I was sent to Delhi in a flight that took 18 to 19 hours. From there, my brother-in-law picked me up,” she told ANI. When asked whether she was provided food and medicines during the flight, she said that she was only given “some chips and two cookies,” adding that “They didn’t provide any medicine or anything else.” Talking about her future, she said that she can’t do anything and that only her children can do anything about it now. “My children over there will do something,” she said. “I cannot do anything.” When asked if she would like to return to the US, Kaur replied, “Definitely. My entire family is out there.” Kaur was among the 132 deportees on the plane, including 15 Colombian nationals. “There were two good officers on board who did not cuff me, although the other deportees were cuffed and shackled,” she said.

Kaur described that she was moved to various locations in the US before she was deported to New Delhi. She is currently living at her sister’s house in Mohali.

‘Served beef, didn’t provide medicine’: Indian-origin woman, 73, recounts treatment during ICE detention, deportation flight to India

An Indian-origin grandmother, 73, who has been living in the United States for 33 years was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during what her family thought was a routine check-in and has become the centre of protests in California. Harjit Kaur, a resident of Hercules in California’s East Bay, was taken into custody by ICE on September 8 in San Francisco and transferred to the Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield the following day. Her family is distraught and in disbelief.&nbsp;Kaur, who immigrated from India in 1992 as a single mother with two sons, has no criminal record. Her claim for asylum was denied in 2012, after which she remained under ICE supervision. Her family says she was repeatedly told that she could stay in the US until travel documents were arranged by Indian authorities. She had been complying with immigration check-ins every six months for the past 13 years and has been paying taxes.&nbsp;<h2>Protesters wave signs saying ‘Hands Off Our Grandma’ and ‘Bring Grandma Home’</h2>&nbsp;Her sudden detention has triggered anger and calls for her release. Around 200 people gathered in El Sobrante on Friday, waving signs that read “Hands Off Our Grandma”, “Bring Grandma Home” and “She’s no criminal” while passing drivers honked in solidarity. The protest was organised by her family, the Sikh Center, and local advocacy group Indivisible West Contra Costa.“She’s not a criminal. And she’s not only my grandma. She is everyone’s grandma,” said her granddaughter, Sukhdeep Kaur, speaking to Richmondside newspaper. “Everyone looks up to her as a mother figure. She is independent, selfless, and hard-working,” Kaur added.&nbsp;A representative from Congressman John Garamendi’s office also attended the protest, along with Hercules City Council member Dilli Bhattarai.“She is not doing any harm to the community. She is an abiding constituent just like us,” Bhattarai said.&nbsp;<h2>‘ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document’</h2>&nbsp;Kaur worked for over 20 years as a seamstress at a family-owned store in Berkeley. Her daughter-in-law, Manjit Kaur, said Harjit always cooperated with immigration authorities and made multiple efforts to secure travel documents from the Indian Consulate.“ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document. If ICE can’t get it in 13 years, how are we supposed to get it,” Manjit asked.&nbsp;The family is concerned about Kaur’s health as she suffers from thyroid issues, chronic knee pain, migraines, and anxiety and claims she is not receiving proper access to medication in detention.“When we did hear from her, she was crying and begging us for help,” the family said.&nbsp;WATCH: Tesla CEO Attacks PM Kier Starmer | Musk: There Needs to Be a Change in Government<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-ceo-attacks-pm-kier-starmer-musk-there-needs-to-be-a-change-in-government-1757867719620/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-ceo-attacks-pm-kier-starmer-musk-there-needs-to-be-a-change-in-government-1757867719620/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Misplaced priorities,’ says Congressman John Garamendi</h2>&nbsp;Congressman Garamendi has criticised the detention as “misplaced priorities” and urged ICE to focus on high-risk individuals rather than elderly residents with long-standing ties to the community.&nbsp;California Assembly member Alex Lee also voiced support for Kaur, saying she should not be treated this way.The family has launched a campaign website, <a href="https://bringharjithome.com/">bringharjithome.com</a>, urging people to contact elected officials and demand her release.

As per reports, 73-year-old Harjit Kaur repeatedly sought travel documents from the Indian Consulate but was denied, and ICE itself assured her for years that she could remain under supervision until those papers were issued.

An Indian-origin grandmother, 73, who has been living in the United States for 33 years was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during what her family thought was a routine check-in and has become the centre of protests in California. Harjit Kaur, a resident of Hercules in California’s East Bay, was taken into custody by ICE on September 8 in San Francisco and transferred to the Mesa Verde ICE Processing Center in Bakersfield the following day. Her family is distraught and in disbelief. Kaur, who immigrated from India in 1992 as a single mother with two sons, has no criminal record. Her claim for asylum was denied in 2012, after which she remained under ICE supervision. Her family says she was repeatedly told that she could stay in the US until travel documents were arranged by Indian authorities. She had been complying with immigration check-ins every six months for the past 13 years and has been paying taxes. Protesters wave signs saying ‘Hands Off Our Grandma’ and ‘Bring Grandma Home’ Her sudden detention has triggered anger and calls for her release. Around 200 people gathered in El Sobrante on Friday, waving signs that read “Hands Off Our Grandma”, “Bring Grandma Home” and “She’s no criminal” while passing drivers honked in solidarity. The protest was organised by her family, the Sikh Center, and local advocacy group Indivisible West Contra Costa. “She’s not a criminal. And she’s not only my grandma. She is everyone’s grandma,” said her granddaughter, Sukhdeep Kaur, speaking to Richmondside newspaper. “Everyone looks up to her as a mother figure. She is independent, selfless, and hard-working,” Kaur added. A representative from Congressman John Garamendi’s office also attended the protest, along with Hercules City Council member Dilli Bhattarai. “She is not doing any harm to the community. She is an abiding constituent just like us,” Bhattarai said. ‘ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document’ Kaur worked for over 20 years as a seamstress at a family-owned store in Berkeley. Her daughter-in-law, Manjit Kaur, said Harjit always cooperated with immigration authorities and made multiple efforts to secure travel documents from the Indian Consulate. “ICE has been trying for the past 13 years to get her a travel document. If ICE can’t get it in 13 years, how are we supposed to get it,” Manjit asked. The family is concerned about Kaur’s health as she suffers from thyroid issues, chronic knee pain, migraines, and anxiety and claims she is not receiving proper access to medication in detention. “When we did hear from her, she was crying and begging us for help,” the family said. WATCH: Tesla CEO Attacks PM Kier Starmer | Musk: There Needs to Be a Change in Government https://www.wionews.com/videos/tesla-ceo-attacks-pm-kier-starmer-musk-there-needs-to-be-a-change-in-government-1757867719620/embed ‘Misplaced priorities,’ says Congressman John Garamendi Congressman Garamendi has criticised the detention as “misplaced priorities” and urged ICE to focus on high-risk individuals rather than elderly residents with long-standing ties to the community. California Assembly member Alex Lee also voiced support for Kaur, saying she should not be treated this way. The family has launched a campaign website, bringharjithome.com, urging people to contact elected officials and demand her release.

As per reports, 73-year-old Harjit Kaur repeatedly sought travel documents from the Indian Consulate but was denied, and ICE itself assured her for years that she could remain under supervision until those papers were issued.

‘Bring Grandma Home’: Indian-origin woman, 73, living in US since 33 years, held in ICE raid; kin, community protest

More than 300 South Korean workers were detained during a raid by US immigration authorities at a Hyundai–LG battery plant under construction in Ellabell, Georgia. Homeland Security Investigations described the operation as part of a “criminal investigation into allegations of unlawful employment practices and serious federal crimes.” The detentions sparked diplomatic concern in Seoul, with fears that the move could strain business ties between South Korea and the United States.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-wise-trump-blasted-netanyahu-in-heated-call-over-qatar-strike-that-blindsided-us-here-s-what-the-us-president-said-1757566859821">'Not wise': Trump blasted Netanyahu in heated call over Qatar strike that blindsided US - Here's what the US president said</a><h2>Trump’s intervention</h2>According to the Financial Times, US President Donald Trump personally ordered that the workers should not be deported. Instead, he reportedly asked officials to “encourage” them to stay in the country and help train American staff. A South Korean foreign ministry official said Trump had suggested the workers remain “to continue to train or educate Americans.” Although a charter flight had been prepared to send the group back, Trump’s order delayed its departure, Seoul confirmed.<h2>Seoul’s response</h2>South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, who was in Washington for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, proposed that the workers should first return home to recover and then come back if they wished. Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung warned that the raid could hurt business confidence. He said companies would hesitate to invest in the US without a proper visa system to support their employees.<h2>Concerns over investment in the US</h2>President Lee noted that South Korea plans to send workers home on a charter flight, while also urging discussions on improving the US visa process. “After the detentions, South Korean companies can’t help but question whether setting up a plant in the US is worth the potential risks. This could have a significant impact on future investment decisions, particularly when evaluating the feasibility of direct operations in the US,” Lee said.He suggested that cultural misunderstandings partly explained the situation, pointing out that in South Korea, Americans teaching English while on tourist visas was not considered “a serious issue.”

Over 300 South Korean workers were detained in a US immigration raid at a Hyundai–LG plant. Trump intervened to stop deportations, urging they stay to train American workers, prompting diplomatic concerns.

More than 300 South Korean workers were detained during a raid by US immigration authorities at a Hyundai–LG battery plant under construction in Ellabell, Georgia. Homeland Security Investigations described the operation as part of a “criminal investigation into allegations of unlawful employment practices and serious federal crimes.” The detentions sparked diplomatic concern in Seoul, with fears that the move could strain business ties between South Korea and the United States. Also read: 'Not wise': Trump blasted Netanyahu in heated call over Qatar strike that blindsided US - Here's what the US president said Trump’s intervention According to the Financial Times, US President Donald Trump personally ordered that the workers should not be deported. Instead, he reportedly asked officials to “encourage” them to stay in the country and help train American staff. A South Korean foreign ministry official said Trump had suggested the workers remain “to continue to train or educate Americans.” Although a charter flight had been prepared to send the group back, Trump’s order delayed its departure, Seoul confirmed. Seoul’s response South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, who was in Washington for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, proposed that the workers should first return home to recover and then come back if they wished. Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung warned that the raid could hurt business confidence. He said companies would hesitate to invest in the US without a proper visa system to support their employees. Concerns over investment in the US President Lee noted that South Korea plans to send workers home on a charter flight, while also urging discussions on improving the US visa process. “After the detentions, South Korean companies can’t help but question whether setting up a plant in the US is worth the potential risks. This could have a significant impact on future investment decisions, particularly when evaluating the feasibility of direct operations in the US,” Lee said. He suggested that cultural misunderstandings partly explained the situation, pointing out that in South Korea, Americans teaching English while on tourist visas was not considered “a serious issue.”

Over 300 South Korean workers were detained in a US immigration raid at a Hyundai–LG plant. Trump intervened to stop deportations, urging they stay to train American workers, prompting diplomatic concerns.

Trump blocks deportation of South Korean Hyundai workers after US factory raid; urges Koreans to 'train Americans'

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 6) issued a chilling warning to Chicago ahead of the planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids as part of the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigrants. Trump also suggested that the biggest city in Illinois is about to find out why it is called ‘Department of War’, referring to the latest executive order signed by him that rebranded the Department of Defence.“I love the smell of deportations in the morning,” the US president wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform, while sharing an edited picture of himself wearing a US Army shirt and black hat with helicopters flying in the background over the city in a chaotic scene.“Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR,” he wrote. The picture also featured a text reading “Chipocalypse Now”.

This comes as ICE is preparing to carry out a raid in the city after Trump said the next federal military takeover will take place in Chicago. The operation, which will target undocumented migrants in the city, is expected to last 45 days. Earlier this week, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said that ICE could ramp up its operations in Chicago over the weekend, starting Friday. Local authorities have said that there could be up to 300 ICE agents in the city.Pritzker has voiced concern that the crackdown could coincide with the Mexican Independence Day Parade in Chicago, which could escalate matters in the city. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and other local officials have also expressed opposition to federal intervention, stressing the city’s sanctuary policies and legal rights to resist federal overreach.Meanwhile, the US Department of Justice said on Saturday that it has made 1,989 arrests in Washington as the authorities ramped up the crackdown against illegal immigrants and crime. It also said that a legal action has been taken against Boston Mayor Michelle Wu over the sanctuary city policy. It also announced the expansion of Joint Task Force Alpha to combat human smuggling.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Department of Justice is Making America Safe Again: 1,989 Arrests in Washington, DC Legal Action Against Boston’s Sanctuary Mayor Expansion of Joint Task Force Alpha to Combat Human Smuggling <a href="https://t.co/KMg5DklxMc">pic.twitter.com/KMg5DklxMc</a>&mdash; U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept/status/1964351040611856535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump warned Chicago of the upcoming immigration raids by federal authorities in the city.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Sep 6) issued a chilling warning to Chicago ahead of the planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids as part of the administration’s crackdown against illegal immigrants. Trump also suggested that the biggest city in Illinois is about to find out why it is called ‘Department of War’, referring to the latest executive order signed by him that rebranded the Department of Defence. “I love the smell of deportations in the morning,” the US president wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform, while sharing an edited picture of himself wearing a US Army shirt and black hat with helicopters flying in the background over the city in a chaotic scene. “Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR,” he wrote. The picture also featured a text reading “Chipocalypse Now”.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump warned Chicago of the upcoming immigration raids by federal authorities in the city.

‘Chipocalypse Now’: Trump’s ominous warning to Chicago ahead of immigration raids

As many as 450 workers were detained in a major raid carried out by the US immigration authorities at a battery plant construction site run by South Korean companies on Thursday (Sep 4). The operation targeted one of the largest and most high-profile manufacturing sites in the state of Georgia, where Hyundai manufactures electric vehicles. This comes in the wake of the US President Donald Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Following the raids, South Korea on Friday (Sep 5) expressed “concern and regret”, saying that its nationals must not be unjustly infringed upon.In a statement on X, the Atlanta office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said that it “joined HSI, FBI, DEA, ICE, GSP and other agencies in a major immigration enforcement operation at the Hyundai mega site battery plant in Bryan County, GA, leading to the apprehension of ~450 unlawful aliens, emphasizing our commitment to community safety.”Meanwhile, in a statement, the White House said on Friday (Sep 5), “Any foreign workers brought in for specific projects must enter the United States legally and with proper work authorizations.”<h2>ICE alleges ‘unlawful employment practices’</h2>US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) spokesman Lindsay Williams confirmed the raids conducted by federal authorities at the 3,000-acre site west of Savannah. He added that agents were focused on the construction site for the battery plant. The Hyundai Motor Group, which employs about 1,200 people at the $7.6 billion plant, began its EV manufacturing operations at the site a year ago.The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that federal agents executed a search warrant “as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into allegations of unlawful employment practices and other serious federal crimes.”<h2>South Korea reacts to immigration raids</h2>The South Korean Foreign Ministry said that “The economic activities of Korean investment companies and the rights and interests of Korean citizens must not be unfairly infringed upon during US law enforcement operations.”It further added in a statement, “We are actively responding to this incident by dispatching the Consul General of the US Embassy in Seoul and the Consulate General in Atlanta to the site and instructing the formation of an on-site response team centred around the local embassy.”“In Seoul, we also conveyed our concerns and regrets today through the US Embassy in Korea and urged them to exercise extreme caution to ensure that the legitimate rights and interests of Korean citizens are not infringed upon,” it said.

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Thursday detained about 450 ‘unlawful aliens’ in a major raid at a battery plant construction site run by Hyundai.

As many as 450 workers were detained in a major raid carried out by the US immigration authorities at a battery plant construction site run by South Korean companies on Thursday (Sep 4). The operation targeted one of the largest and most high-profile manufacturing sites in the state of Georgia, where Hyundai manufactures electric vehicles. This comes in the wake of the US President Donald Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Following the raids, South Korea on Friday (Sep 5) expressed “concern and regret”, saying that its nationals must not be unjustly infringed upon. In a statement on X, the Atlanta office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said that it “joined HSI, FBI, DEA, ICE, GSP and other agencies in a major immigration enforcement operation at the Hyundai mega site battery plant in Bryan County, GA, leading to the apprehension of ~450 unlawful aliens, emphasizing our commitment to community safety.” Meanwhile, in a statement, the White House said on Friday (Sep 5), “Any foreign workers brought in for specific projects must enter the United States legally and with proper work authorizations.” ICE alleges ‘unlawful employment practices’ US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) spokesman Lindsay Williams confirmed the raids conducted by federal authorities at the 3,000-acre site west of Savannah. He added that agents were focused on the construction site for the battery plant. The Hyundai Motor Group, which employs about 1,200 people at the $7.6 billion plant, began its EV manufacturing operations at the site a year ago. The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that federal agents executed a search warrant “as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into allegations of unlawful employment practices and other serious federal crimes.” South Korea reacts to immigration raids The South Korean Foreign Ministry said that “The economic activities of Korean investment companies and the rights and interests of Korean citizens must not be unfairly infringed upon during US law enforcement operations.” It further added in a statement, “We are actively responding to this incident by dispatching the Consul General of the US Embassy in Seoul and the Consulate General in Atlanta to the site and instructing the formation of an on-site response team centred around the local embassy.” “In Seoul, we also conveyed our concerns and regrets today through the US Embassy in Korea and urged them to exercise extreme caution to ensure that the legitimate rights and interests of Korean citizens are not infringed upon,” it said.

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Thursday detained about 450 ‘unlawful aliens’ in a major raid at a battery plant construction site run by Hyundai.

Hundreds of ‘unlawful aliens’ detained in US immigration raid at Hyundai site; S Korea urges extreme caution

Indians and other immigrants hoping to live and work legally in the United States will now face a new hurdle: screening for "anti-Americanism." The policy, announced Tuesday (Aug 19) by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has already raised concerns among critics about whether it gives officials too much freedom to reject applicants based on personal, subjective judgment rather than clear standards.<h2>What does this ‘anti-Americanism’ screening mean?</h2>Under the new screening rule, immigration officers have now been instructed to weigh whether a green card applicant has "endorsed, promoted, supported, or otherwise espoused" anti-American, terrorist, or antisemitic views.In a statement, Matthew Tragesser, a USCIS spokesman, defended the move, saying that American "benefits" like the green card and citizenship "should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies". Calling the rights to work and live in America "privileges", he asserted that immigration benefits are "not a right".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-just-dance-vance-newsom-taunts-trump-s-vp-jd-vance-with-new-nickname-says-not-even-his-eyeliner-lines-1755506542466">'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…'</a><h2>But, what exactly is 'anti-Americanism'?</h2>It remains unclear what, exactly, will qualify as "anti-Americanism." No definitions were provided, leaving critics uneasy about how the rule will be enforced. However, going by Trump's recent moves, it could be postulated that candidates with “woke” ideologies would not be welcome in the US.Elizabeth Jacobs, director of regulatory affairs and policy at the Centre for Immigration Studies, a group that advocates for immigration restrictions, said the government is signalling a tougher stance on behaviour and ideology, but noted officers still retain broad discretion. “The message is that the U.S. and immigration agencies are going to be less tolerant of anti-Americanism or antisemitism when making immigration decisions,” she explained.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pushes-zelensky-putin-for-one-on-one-peace-talks-says-it-ll-be-better-but-will-he-crash-the-meeting-1755656335352">Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting?</a><h2>Critics flag possibilities of bias</h2>That lack of clarity has critics worried that bias could creep into the process. Jane Lilly Lopez, a sociology professor at Brigham Young University, said the policy risks opening the door to prejudice. "For me, the really big story is they are opening the door for stereotypes and prejudice and implicit bias to take the wheel in these decisions. That’s really worrisome," she said, as quoted by ABC News.Trump's immigration crackdownAlso read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-attack-in-november-harvard-scientist-flags-mysterious-object-hurtling-towards-earth-1753526257304">Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth</a>The latest directive follows other changes undertaken by the Trump administration since its inauguration. Other moves include social media vetting and assessing applications for "good moral character" in naturalisation cases. Applicants now have to show "not simply the absence of misconduct" but also evidence of positive contributions to society. "It means you are going to just do a whole lot more work to provide evidence that you meet our standards," Lopez said.<h2>Indians in America</h2>Every year, hundreds of thousands of Indians immigrate to the US. According to the Migration Policy Institute, as of 2023, over 2.9 million Indian immigrants lived in the United States. This makes America the second most popular global destination for Indians after the United Arab Emirates.

The US has introduced a new immigration policy requiring immigrants looking to work in America to be screened for "anti-Americanism". Here's what it means for you.

Indians and other immigrants hoping to live and work legally in the United States will now face a new hurdle: screening for "anti-Americanism." The policy, announced Tuesday (Aug 19) by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has already raised concerns among critics about whether it gives officials too much freedom to reject applicants based on personal, subjective judgment rather than clear standards. What does this ‘anti-Americanism’ screening mean? Under the new screening rule, immigration officers have now been instructed to weigh whether a green card applicant has "endorsed, promoted, supported, or otherwise espoused" anti-American, terrorist, or antisemitic views. In a statement, Matthew Tragesser, a USCIS spokesman, defended the move, saying that American "benefits" like the green card and citizenship "should not be given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies". Calling the rights to work and live in America "privileges", he asserted that immigration benefits are "not a right". Also read | 'Just Dance Vance': Newsom taunts Trump's VP JD Vance with new nickname, says 'Not even his eyeliner lines…' But, what exactly is 'anti-Americanism'? It remains unclear what, exactly, will qualify as "anti-Americanism." No definitions were provided, leaving critics uneasy about how the rule will be enforced. However, going by Trump's recent moves, it could be postulated that candidates with “woke” ideologies would not be welcome in the US. Elizabeth Jacobs, director of regulatory affairs and policy at the Centre for Immigration Studies, a group that advocates for immigration restrictions, said the government is signalling a tougher stance on behaviour and ideology, but noted officers still retain broad discretion. “The message is that the U.S. and immigration agencies are going to be less tolerant of anti-Americanism or antisemitism when making immigration decisions,” she explained. Also read | Trump says 'better' if Zelensky-Putin talks happen one-on-one, without him — but will he crash the meeting? Critics flag possibilities of bias That lack of clarity has critics worried that bias could creep into the process. Jane Lilly Lopez, a sociology professor at Brigham Young University, said the policy risks opening the door to prejudice. "For me, the really big story is they are opening the door for stereotypes and prejudice and implicit bias to take the wheel in these decisions. That’s really worrisome," she said, as quoted by ABC News. Trump's immigration crackdown Also read | Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards Earth The latest directive follows other changes undertaken by the Trump administration since its inauguration. Other moves include social media vetting and assessing applications for "good moral character" in naturalisation cases. Applicants now have to show "not simply the absence of misconduct" but also evidence of positive contributions to society. "It means you are going to just do a whole lot more work to provide evidence that you meet our standards," Lopez said. Indians in America Every year, hundreds of thousands of Indians immigrate to the US. According to the Migration Policy Institute, as of 2023, over 2.9 million Indian immigrants lived in the United States. This makes America the second most popular global destination for Indians after the United Arab Emirates.

The US has introduced a new immigration policy requiring immigrants looking to work in America to be screened for "anti-Americanism". Here's what it means for you.

Indians (and other immigrants) hoping to live in the US will now be screened for 'anti-Americanism'. Here's what it means

Immigrants in the US, many of whom are facing deportation, are turning to innovative and unusual sources for money to cover the expenses for bail and legal battles to survive and stay in the country. A Colombian woman with the profile name ‘The Blonde that should not get deported’ (@Blondeblond) has resorted to posting nude pictures online to raise money for her legal expenses.&nbsp;According to a report by USA Today, she had been detained by ICE and is locked up in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centre in Louisiana. The cost of deportation defence can run up to thousands of dollars. The OnlyFans model spoke on condition of anonymity in the fear that her fundraising effort would be affected if her identity were disclosed.The Department of Homeland Security detained her in the Enforcement Detention Centre in June. Her husband or other relatives are allowed to visit her twice a week. She is raising funds for her upcoming bond hearing.Her OnlyFans handle features photos of her in scantily clad, bold clothing. She met her husband, who is a US citizen, in Colombia. When he visited her country, both were in their respective relationships. They kept in touch for years, fell in love and decided to get married after a divorce.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This is what freedom looked like before I was detained and locked up. Flowing river, silent nature, peace....freedom🌿🌳☀️💧 <a href="https://t.co/OtBaCrlslX">pic.twitter.com/OtBaCrlslX</a>&mdash; Blonde on Bond (@BlondeOnBond) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlondeOnBond/status/1941857799018803528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe have raised nearly $2 million for deportation defence efforts in June and July. USA Today has verified 15 such campaigns with internal sources of the largest crowdfunding platform in the US.&nbsp;A California mother of two whose youngest is still in high school has raised $6,721 in a week. A married Vermont homebuilder who co-owns a business has collected $36,975 since June 18. This trend highlights growing desperation and creativity among immigrant communities to avoid deportation amid increasingly aggressive immigration enforcement. However, while using a platform like OnlyFans, these individuals are vulnerable to personal safety and dignity. These income streams are unpredictable and unreliable, and sometimes come with stigma.

With the ongoing ICE crackdown, immigrants have turned to the largest crowdfunding platform in the US, GoFundMe and adult content platform OnlyFans to escape the crackdown from the ICE and to raise money to cover the legal expenses.

Immigrants in the US, many of whom are facing deportation, are turning to innovative and unusual sources for money to cover the expenses for bail and legal battles to survive and stay in the country. A Colombian woman with the profile name ‘The Blonde that should not get deported’ (@Blondeblond) has resorted to posting nude pictures online to raise money for her legal expenses. According to a report by USA Today, she had been detained by ICE and is locked up in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centre in Louisiana. The cost of deportation defence can run up to thousands of dollars. The OnlyFans model spoke on condition of anonymity in the fear that her fundraising effort would be affected if her identity were disclosed. The Department of Homeland Security detained her in the Enforcement Detention Centre in June. Her husband or other relatives are allowed to visit her twice a week. She is raising funds for her upcoming bond hearing. Her OnlyFans handle features photos of her in scantily clad, bold clothing. She met her husband, who is a US citizen, in Colombia. When he visited her country, both were in their respective relationships. They kept in touch for years, fell in love and decided to get married after a divorce.

With the ongoing ICE crackdown, immigrants have turned to the largest crowdfunding platform in the US, GoFundMe and adult content platform OnlyFans to escape the crackdown from the ICE and to raise money to cover the legal expenses.

GoFundMe, OnlyFans… or goodbye? How immigrants are fighting to stay in America