Story perspectives

Columbia Student Detained by ICE, Sparks Policy Changes

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Columbia University student Ellie Aghayeva was detained by ICE on February 26, 2026 after agents misrepresented themselves as police to access her residence.
University officials criticized entry for lacking a warrant, while Aghayeva posted that DHS illegally arrested me.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani intervened and discussed the case with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Aghayeva was released later that day.
Columbia announced new protocols to prevent unauthorized access.

History

Historical Context

In 2016, widespread protests erupted in the U.S. against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions, particularly affecting undocumented students. The American Civil Liberties Union reported over 200,000 undocumented students faced deportation risks. This unrest reflects ongoing tensions between educational institutions and federal immigration enforcement, as seen in cases like Ellie Aghayeva's, prompting universities to adopt stricter access protocols to safeguard their students.

1 of 2

Story summary

Columbia University student Ellie Aghayeva was detained by ICE on February 26, 2026 after agents misrepresented themselves as police to access her residence.
University officials criticized entry for lacking a warrant, while Aghayeva posted that DHS illegally arrested me.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani intervened and discussed the case with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Aghayeva was released later that day.
Columbia announced new protocols to prevent unauthorized access.

1 / 2