U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is targeting 1,445,549 noncitizens from 187 countries, including more than 1,000 Kenyans, as part of its ongoing deportation operations. As of November 24, 2024, data from ICE reveals that 1,282 Kenyans are among those marked for removal from the United States. These individuals, categorized as non-detained, have received court orders instructing them to leave the country.
A “non-detained docket” refers to individuals who are not currently in ICE custody but remain subject to deportation orders. These individuals are still considered removable from the U.S., despite not being detained. The 1.4 million individuals on the deportation list include people from various countries, with other African nations such as Tanzania (301), Uganda (393), Somalia (4,090), and Ethiopia (1,713) also represented.
ICE’s operation, part of its routine enforcement actions, is aimed at removing individuals residing in the U.S. without legal authorization. According to ICE, these individuals have violated immigration laws or committed other offenses, making them subject to deportation. “Each year, ICE conducts targeted enforcement against noncitizens who fail to comply with legal requirements or court orders,” ICE stated.
While deportation is typically enforced following court orders, noncitizens may seek relief, such as asylum or protection under the Convention Against Torture, to prevent removal. If granted such relief, ICE cannot carry out deportation.
ICE also noted that delays in deportation may occur due to a lack of cooperation from foreign governments. “The U.S. Government believes every country is obligated to accept the return of its citizens who are ineligible to remain in the United States. Lack of cooperation from foreign governments can delay, and in many cases, inhibit the removal process,” ICE explained.
