DHS Seeks Custody of Illegal Immigrant Accused of Murder in Florida

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has requested the transfer of a Bangladeshi illegal immigrant accused of murdering his sister-in-law in Florida. Akbor Miah, who allegedly used the alias Shahidul Islam, was deported under the Trump administration but illegally reentered the U.S. and was subsequently released by the Biden administration.

According to officials, Miah first came to the U.S. in 2016 during the Obama administration. In February 2018, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested him, and later that year, an immigration judge ordered his removal. Miah was deported to Bangladesh in January 2019 but illegally reentered the U.S., which is considered a federal felony. On March 19, 2022, he was released by the Biden administration.

Miah is charged with first-degree murder after his sister-in-law, Monica Islam, was found fatally shot in Lake County, Florida, in May 2025. ICE filed a detainer requesting Florida officials hand Miah over to federal custody after his state criminal proceedings conclude.

Authorities reported that Monica Islam’s disappearance began after she left work at a convenience store in Eustis, Florida, where Miah was also employed. Investigators discovered her body with a gunshot wound in Mount Dora hours later, and DNA evidence linked her to Miah’s vehicle.

Officials claim Miah fled to New York before being captured by U.S. Marshals and extradited back to Florida. State Attorney Bill Gladson noted suspicious internet searches conducted by Miah on the morning of the murder. Local, state, and federal agencies collaborated to track Miah down. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.

This case highlights issues surrounding immigration enforcement and sanctuary policies. DHS Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis emphasized law enforcement efforts in apprehending Miah and maintaining public safety. ICE aims to prevent future risks by detaining Miah post-trial.