Mankato, Minnesota – A second college student from Minnesota has been apprehended by federal immigration authorities, as confirmed by Minnesota State University in Mankato. The student was taken into custody at an off-campus location, just one day after another international student from the University of Minnesota was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). President Edward Inch addressed the university community via email on Monday, expressing that the university was not contacted by ICE prior to the detainment, nor was any information requested from MSU Mankato.
Inch emphasized the negative impact of such actions on the university’s mission of providing education and support to all students. He stated that the university was not given a specific reason for the detainment and has been in communication with elected officials at both the state and federal levels to address the situation. Members of the university community were urged to seek support from campus resources if needed.
U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar mentioned that her office is actively working with MSU Mankato to gather more details from ICE regarding the detainment. She highlighted the essential role that international students play in enriching university life. Following the initial incident at the University of Minnesota, protests took place over the weekend in downtown Minneapolis, with union members and students demonstrating near a federal immigration field office.
In response to inquiries, the Department of Homeland Security clarified that the arrest at the University of Minnesota was unrelated to student protests. The individual in question reportedly had their visa revoked by the State Department due to a previous criminal offense. Despite this explanation, no further verification has been provided. The university communities affected by these events have expressed concern and are seeking answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the detainments.