As of November 24, 2024, over 1.4 million non-citizens without legal status in the United States have been ordered to leave the country.
Among those affected, 1282 Kenyans are on the list for deportation. Mexico has the highest number of people facing deportation, with 252,044 individuals, followed by El Salvador with 203,822.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are conducting mass arrests to enforce the Trump administration’s immigration rules.
Reports have surfaced of ICE agents increasing their presence, including videos showing agents surrounding a Kenyan’s home.
Former President Donald Trump had promised “mass deportations” for immigrants without legal status.
Understanding the Deportation Process
According to an article on USA.gov, deportation is the process of removing a non-citizen from the U.S. for violating immigration law. The U.S. may detain and deport non-citizens who:
- Participate in criminal activities
- Pose a threat to public safety
- Violate visa conditions
Immigration Court Hearings and Rulings
Immigration court cases are handled by judges from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). If a judge rules that deportation should proceed, ICE is responsible for carrying out the removal order.
Before the removal, individuals may be allowed to leave the U.S. at their own expense through a process called voluntary departure.
What Happens When Someone Is Deported
Most deportations are carried out by air at U.S. government expense, though some may involve a combination of air and ground transportation.
Non-citizens convicted of nonviolent crimes may be subject to Rapid REPAT, which allows them to voluntarily return to their country of origin after being released from prison.
What Happens When Someone Is Detained by Immigration
Non-citizens may be held in a detention center before their trial or deportation. After detention, individuals may appear before a judge in immigration court during the deportation process.
In some cases, expedited removal may occur without a hearing in immigration court. This is often the case for non-citizens who:
- Arrive in the U.S. without proper travel documents
- Use forged travel documents
- Fail to comply with visa or other entry document requirements
Appeal or Seek Help with a Deportation Order
Some deportation rulings can be appealed. If you wish to appeal a ruling, it’s important to seek legal assistance.
Nonprofit legal organizations may also be able to provide help. For questions about filing an appeal, contact a USCIS office.
If you believe your civil rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Department of Homeland Security.
by MAUREEN WARUINGE
