Ghanaian Woman and Son to Be Deported Following Detention at U.S. Airport

A pregnant woman from Ghana, Annabella Gyasi, along with her son, faced deportation after being detained for over a week in a windowless room at Washington Dulles International Airport. They were scheduled to return to Africa, according to her legal representatives.

Gyasi, aged 38, arrived in the United States on May 19 for a medical consultation concerning her son. The boy was born with severely malformed hands, as noted by a submission from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Virginia. Both were traveling on valid visas but were held by immigration officials after Gyasi expressed fears of persecution in Ghana and a reluctance to return.

During their detention, Gyasi suffered from pregnancy complications, including vaginal bleeding and elevated blood pressure, which led to two hospital visits. Feeling pressured by the conditions, she consented to leave the U.S., her attorneys reported.

Mary Bauer, Executive Director of ACLU Virginia, commented on the circumstances, stating, “We’re relieved that Ms. Gyasi and her son will soon be free from this nightmare, but no one should endure the inhumane conditions they faced.” The lawyers highlighted that Gyasi frequently informed guards of hunger for herself and her child but was not provided with extra food.

The Department of Homeland Security countered these claims, asserting that all detainees receive proper care, including medical attention, medications, and food.

Following a directive issued on Friday by U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, it was determined that the well-being of both Gyasi and her son, as well as justice, necessitate their prompt return home. A preceding decision from Judge Brinkema quoted immigration personnel who declared Gyasi’s tourist visas invalid on grounds that she planned to seek asylum and did not intend to return to Ghana.

Gyasi and her son were expected to depart for Ghana on Friday evening.