Minnesota University Students Detained by ICE, Raising Concerns

• Mar 31, 2025

Two Minnesota university students have been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the past week, according to school officials. The most recent case involved a student from Minnesota State University-Mankato, who was detained at an off-campus residence last Friday. University President Edward Inch confirmed the incident and expressed concern, stating that no reason for the detention was given, and that the university had received no communication from ICE. The federal agency had also not requested any information from the university.

Inch emphasized that international students are a vital part of the university and its community, contributing significantly to both campus life and academic culture. "This action hurts what we try to accomplish as a university," Inch said. "We strive to support all learners in receiving the education they need to make an impact in their communities." He also mentioned that he has reached out to elected officials for help in addressing this issue and halting similar actions.

The Minnesota State University-Mankato detainment followed a similar event the day before in Minneapolis, where a University of Minnesota-Twin Cities graduate student was also detained by ICE at an off-campus residence. The University of Minnesota confirmed the incident and stated that it had no prior knowledge of the detainment. The university emphasized that it did not share any information with federal officials before the student's arrest.

The University of Minnesota has expressed concern about the impact these detentions have on its international student population, which exceeds 5,000 students. University officials are actively gathering more details about the incident and have assured students that support services are available. The university has encouraged students to seek assistance from resources such as Student Legal Service and the International Student and Scholar Services.

The incident has raised alarms among international students at both universities, who are now seeking clarity and support from school officials as they navigate the uncertainties surrounding these detentions.