Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Afghan Interpreter, US Ally, Detained by ICE Amid Outcry
Imagine a person from Afghanistan who helped the U.S. military.
This person, named Zia, came to America with a special visa.
Now, U.S. immigration officials have arrested him in Connecticut, even though he was supposed to get a green card.
Lawmakers and his lawyer are upset, saying he has done nothing wrong.
The government says they're investigating him, but hasn't said why.
Zia is now in a detention center, and his family is worried.
If sent back to Afghanistan, Zia may be in danger.
An Afghan translator who assisted U.S. troops was detained by ICE in Connecticut.
Zia S. entered the U.S. legally in 2024 with an SIV and humanitarian parole.
He was arrested during a green card biometrics appointment and is held in Massachusetts.
Zia's lawyer claims he has no criminal history and followed all rules.
DHS is investigating Zia for a "serious criminal allegation", with no specifics provided.
- Who
- Zia S., an Afghan translator who aided the US military.
- What
- An Afghan translator who aided US troops was detained by ICE.
- When
- Arrested last week in October 2024.
- Where
- Connecticut, held in a Massachusetts detention facility.
- Why
- Under investigation for a 'serious criminal allegation', though specifics are not public.
Advocates for Afghan Allies
Department of Homeland Security
Detention Justification
Advocates for Afghan Allies
Zia S. is being unjustly detained and faces potential death if deported.
Department of Homeland Security
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is investigating Zia for a “serious criminal allegation”.
- Name
- Zia S.
- Nationality
- Afghan
- Entered US
- October 2024
- Visa Type
- Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) & humanitarian parole
- Detaining Agency
- ICE
- Detention Location
- Plymouth, Massachusetts
- Allegation
- Serious criminal allegation (unspecified)