U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested a Russian national born in Tajikistan, who is wanted internationally. The arrest took place on May 23 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with cooperation from the FBI.
Brian McShane, acting Field Office Director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Philadelphia, stated: “Arresting individuals linked to terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda reaffirms our unwavering commitment to safeguard the homeland. Through close collaboration with our outstanding partners at the FBI, we have taken decisive action to make our communities safer and prevent potential threats to the American people.” He praised the efforts of ICE and FBI personnel for their dedication to national security.
The individual was initially encountered at San Ysidro Pedestrian West point of entry in California on March 21, 2023. He was charged as an inadmissible alien under the Immigration and Nationality Act due to lack of an immigrant visa. Subsequently, he received a notice to appear before an immigration judge and was paroled into the United States.
Tajikistan authorities recently declared him a fugitive, alleging his involvement in organizing a criminal community and possible membership in Al-Qaeda. Following his arrest, he remains detained by ICE pending removal from the U.S.
The public is encouraged to report any related information or suspicious activities through the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or via their online tip form.
Further details about ICE Philadelphia’s public safety mission can be found on X: @EROPhiladelphia.
