A pregnant woman from Ghana and her young son, who endured more than a week in a windowless detention room at a Washington airport, have been ordered deported and are flying back to Africa, her lawyers confirmed on Friday.
Background of the Case
Annabella Gyasi, 38, arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport on May 19 with her son, who was born with severely malformed hands, to attend a medical appointment, according to a petition filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia. Both were traveling on valid visas, but immigration officers detained them after Gyasi mentioned facing persecution in Ghana and fearing return.
Detention Conditions
During their detention, Gyasi experienced pregnancy complications, including vaginal bleeding and high blood pressure, leading to two hospitalizations. Her lawyers stated that she felt compelled to agree to leave the U.S. after days of harsh conditions. "While we're relieved that Ms. Gyasi and her son will soon be free from this nightmare, no one should be subjected to the inhumane conditions they endured," said Mary Bauer, executive director of ACLU Virginia.
Gyasi repeatedly informed guards that she and her son were hungry but were not provided additional food. The Department of Homeland Security denied this, asserting that all detainees receive appropriate care, including medical evaluations, medication, and food.
Court Order
U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued an order on Friday stating that "the welfare of the petitioners and the interests of justice are best served by allowing petitioners to return home immediately." An earlier order from Brinkema noted that immigration officials claimed Gyasi's tourist visas were invalid because she admitted to seeking asylum and not intending to return. Gyasi and her son were expected to depart for Ghana on Friday evening.
