U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has deported Fatbardh Lala, an Albanian national wanted in Albania for fraud and bribery. Lala was handed over to Albanian authorities at Tirana International Airport on March 6.
Lala entered the United States legally on May 10, 2023, through Chicago O’Hare airport. He was arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron on October 23, 2024, after being denied entry into Canada. It was then discovered that he had an outstanding warrant in Albania.
"We found out Lala was wanted for bribery and fraud, which are serious charges, and he can now be held accountable for those crimes," stated ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Detroit Field Office Director Robert Lynch. "ICE remains committed to removing foreign fugitives, regardless of nationality, so they can face justice in their home countries."
An immigration judge from the Justice Department’s Executive Office of Immigration Review ordered Lala's removal on January 29.
The public is encouraged to report immigration crimes or suspicious activity by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by completing the online tip form.
Further information about ICE’s mission to enhance public safety in Michigan and Ohio communities can be found on X at @ERODetroit.
