A truck driver from Mauritania, Ahmed Nenni, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 16, 2023. His arrest occurred during a routine inspection at a weigh station in northern Indiana. At the time, Nenni was on his usual delivery route. His wife, Elizabeth Nenni, expressed her concerns following his detainment.
Background on Ahmed Nenni
Ahmed Nenni, 29, is seeking asylum and has a pending application for a green card through an I-130 petition. Elizabeth Nenni, a U.S. citizen and chiropractic assistant, noted that her husband has no criminal record and has always been a tax-paying individual.
Details of the Detainment
- Date of Detainment: October 16, 2023
- Location: Weigh station in northern Indiana
- Time: Approximately 11:30 a.m.
ICE agents, in collaboration with Indiana State Police, approached Nenni while he was out of his truck. Following their protocol, he complied with their instructions.
Immigration Status and Legal Proceedings
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Nenni entered the United States unlawfully on September 15, 2023, in San Diego. He was released under the Biden administration but now faces detention as part of a crackdown on undocumented truck drivers.
Upcoming Immigration Hearing
Nenni has an immigration court hearing scheduled for 2027 in New York. His case highlights the increased scrutiny on migrant truck drivers, particularly during the Trump administration’s emphasis on mass deportations.
Living Conditions and Treatment
Reports indicate that Nenni was shackled during his arrest. Elizabeth Nenni described his treatment during transportation to the Joe Corley Processing Center in Conroe, Texas. She claimed he was denied access to a restroom and water for two hours.
Furthermore, she noted the limited food options available to him at the detention center, which do not accommodate his dietary restrictions as a Muslim. He has been forced to skip meals due to being unable to eat pork.
Current Situation
As Ahmed Nenni remains in ICE custody, he has reportedly accepted voluntary deportation, believing it to be the best option given his circumstances. Elizabeth Nenni is deeply stressed by the situation, yearning for their lives to return to normal. The couple’s ordeal underscores the complexities of the immigration system and its effects on individuals and families.
