Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
A dramatic encounter in Minnesota has led to the arrest of Nigerian national Damilola Bamigboye, 24, following allegations that he kidnapped a U.S. immigration officer in an attempt to avoid deportation. The incident, which escalated from a routine immigration enforcement operation into a high‑profile federal case, has raised concerns over both enforcement procedures and public safety.
According to federal authorities, the episode unfolded on December 10 in Plymouth, Minnesota, when agents from the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit attempted to engage Bamigboye regarding his immigration status. He had reportedly overstayed his student visa, prompting surveillance and enforcement action. When the officers approached, Bamigboye allegedly masked his face and resisted engagement.
The situation escalated when Bamigboye reportedly directed an accomplice, identified as Rekeya Frazier, to drive their vehicle while the agents were approaching. One officer was allegedly dragged into the SUV during the vehicle’s movement, turning the encounter into what authorities described as a temporary hostage situation. In the struggle, one officer reportedly jumped from the moving car to avoid serious injury, while the other was briefly carried along before the vehicle slowed.
Bamigboye fled on foot into a nearby grocery store, where local law enforcement assisted FBI agents in his apprehension. Frazier was also taken into custody. Bamigboye now faces federal charges including resisting arrest and abducting a federal officer.
In initial statements, Bamigboye reportedly claimed that the officers had not properly identified themselves, though federal prosecutors maintain the agents clearly displayed their credentials. Legal experts say the case will likely focus on procedural compliance, including whether proper identification and engagement protocols were followed during the operation.
The arrest underscores the seriousness with which U.S. authorities treat attempts to obstruct immigration enforcement, particularly when the safety of federal personnel is involved. If convicted, Bamigboye faces a potentially lengthy prison sentence, followed by deportation proceedings.
The incident comes amid heightened national scrutiny of immigration enforcement practices, and its outcome is expected to draw attention from legal observers, immigration advocates, and Nigerian diaspora communities. Beyond the criminal charges, the case has sparked broader discussions about the conduct of immigration operations, accountability, and the balance between law enforcement and the rights of individuals.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments