A Columbia University student was arrested on Thursday by federal immigration officers who allegedly misrepresented themselves as Modern York police officers looking for a missing child to gain entry to a residential building, according to reports.
Columbia Student Detained After Alleged Deception
Acting President of Columbia University, Claire Shipman, stated the university is working to reach the student’s family and provide legal support. The student has been identified by multiple sources as Ellie Aghayeva, who posted to Instagram stating, “Dhs illegally arrested me. Please help.”
Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal alleged on social media that “ICE agents impersonated NYPD with fake badges and a phony missing persons bulletin for a 5 year old girl.” He further stated that the agents “purposefully deceived campus housing/security to gain entry to the student’s apartment.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied that agents impersonated the NYPD, stating that investigators “verbally identified themselves and visibly wore badges around their necks.” DHS confirmed the student’s identity as Elmina Aghayeva, an Azerbaijani national whose student visa was terminated in 2016 for failing to attend classes.
According to DHS, the building manager and Aghayeva’s roommate allowed officers into the apartment. The agency stated Aghayeva has no pending appeals or applications with DHS.
The New York Police Department stated they were not involved in the arrest. Friends of Aghayeva, who is reportedly a senior majoring in neuroscience and political science, contacted local officials for help after she sent a message saying, “ICE is in my house. They are trying to seize me away.”
Eli Northrup, an attorney and candidate for state assembly, criticized Columbia’s security, stating that no law enforcement should be admitted into buildings without thorough vetting. Shayoni Mitra, a Barnard professor, questioned why Columbia Public Safety officers were not trained to prevent ICE from entering campus facilities.
The arrest follows similar incidents last year involving the detention of Columbia students Mahmoud Khalil and Mohsen Mahdawi during a crackdown on dissent related to the war in Gaza.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul accused ICE of lying to gain access to Aghayeva’s residence and proposed a bill to ban ICE from entering sensitive locations like schools and dorms. Brad Lander, a former New York City comptroller, condemned the detention and called for the abolition of ICE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ellie Aghayeva?
Ellie Aghayeva is a Columbia University student from Azerbaijan whose student visa was terminated in 2016. She is reportedly a senior majoring in neuroscience and political science.
What did DHS say about the arrest?
DHS confirmed the arrest of Elmina Aghayeva and stated her student visa was terminated in 2016. They denied allegations that agents impersonated NYPD officers, saying they verbally identified themselves and wore visible badges.
What is the reaction to the arrest?
The arrest has prompted criticism from Columbia officials, local politicians, and students, who have raised concerns about the tactics used by ICE and the security protocols at Columbia University.
Given the conflicting accounts of the events surrounding Aghayeva’s arrest, what steps might Columbia University take to review and strengthen its security protocols regarding access for law enforcement agencies?
