Nun Released from Custody Following Detainment Near U.S.-Mexico Border

A nun named Sister Leticia Ugboaja was released from immigration custody after being detained while walking to Mass in South Texas. The incident occurred when she was en route to Our Lady of Sorrows Church in McAllen, Texas, close to the U.S.-Mexico border.

Sister Ugboaja was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have not commented on the situation since the arrest happened.

Parish officials quickly took to social media, posting about the arrest. The message drew attention and resulted in intervention by Congress members, including U.S. Representative Monica de la Cruz.

Ugboaja belongs to the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy and volunteers as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, according to Brenda Riojas, spokesperson for the Diocese of Brownsville.

Additionally, Ugboaja works as a registered nurse at South Texas Health System and has a decade of experience as a certified nursing assistant at DHR Health in Edinburg.

Local Congressional representatives intervened with federal officials. Subsequently, Ugboaja returned safely to her home as of Monday.

Brenda Riojas expressed gratitude for the prompt action of local lawmakers who contacted the Department of Homeland Security to secure the nun’s release from custody.

President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, including enforcement at sensitive locations such as religious sites, have led faith leaders to reconsider their strategies. Some leaders have urged parishioners to attend church services online, while others provide assistance with daily tasks like grocery shopping for those who are concerned about leaving their homes.