Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) took to Twitter September 12 to demand answers as ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] prepared to “deport dozens of individuals” from her district back to Somalia, claiming they will risk “the spread of COVID”, Swamp Drain previously reported.
In March, Omar also called to “release ICE detainees” amid the global pandemic, tweeting, “We need to release ICE detainees, people held on bail, and anyone [who] qualifies for work release.”
Rep. Ilhan Omar tweeted September 12, demanding answers:
ICE is set to deport dozens of individuals from my district to Somalia, risking the spread of COVID.
ICE’s actions will not only put these individuals at risk, but could have far-reaching consequences for Somalia.
This week, I sent a letter to ICE to get answers.
— Rep. Ilhan Omar (@Ilhan) September 12, 2020
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On September 15, Rep. Omar also tweeted, “Abolish ICE.”
Abolish ICE. https://t.co/kMg6ezS4Xi
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) September 15, 2020
On September 21, ICE responded to Rep. Omar in series of tweets, explaining why they removed 39 detainees to Somalia and included a letter with a sample of crimes which were committed.
This week, ICE removed 39 detainees to Somalia. Nearly all had criminal histories, including murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, rape, solicitation of a minor, sexual assault on a minor, fleeing a peace officer, indecent exposure, drug trafficking, and DWI.
— ICE (@ICEgov) September 20, 2020
Letter from ICE in response to Representative Omar:
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ICE also reported on Sunday:
Since Oct. 1, 2009, ERO has removed more than 3,700 foreign fugitives from the United States who were sought in their native countries for serious crimes, including kidnapping, rape and murder.
— ICE (@ICEgov) September 20, 2020
ICE is committed to removing individuals who threaten not only public safety, but also national security,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Director Tony Pham. Read below for more info on Somali removals this week and to read ICE’s response to Representative Omar. pic.twitter.com/hN1d91VUBz
— ICE (@ICEgov) September 20, 2020
