Catholic Diocese Investigates Nun’s Arrest by Immigration Officials
The Catholic Diocese of Brownsville is seeking clarity regarding the recent arrest of a nun who was on her way to church in McAllen. The diocese described the actions of federal immigration agents as “very disturbing.”
Sister Letitia Ugboaja Detained and Released After Intervention
Sister Letitia “Leti” Ugboaja, a 56-year-old nun from Nigeria, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) authorities. She was released late Sunday following intervention from lawmakers in South Texas.
Bishop Calls for Reform in Immigration Enforcement Policies
Bishop Daniel E. Flores expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding Sister Letty’s detention. In a statement, he indicated that the Department of Homeland Security’s enforcement regulations, which permit the restraint of individuals peacefully walking to church, are troubling and warrant reform.
Civil Rights Organization Demands Investigation
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the largest Latino civil rights organization in the United States, has also called for an investigation into Sister Ugboaja’s arrest.
Department of Homeland Security Remains Silent
Despite multiple inquiries from The Texas Tribune, the Department of Homeland Security has yet to respond to questions regarding the incident as of Sunday and Tuesday.
Details of the Arrest Emerge
Sister Ugboaja, a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy and a registered nurse in South Texas for approximately ten years, is refraining from interviews on her attorney’s advice, according to diocesan spokeswoman Brenda Riojas. On Sunday morning, she was en route to Our Lady of Sorrows for mass when federal immigration officials detained her before her arrival, despite living only a block away from the church.
Federal Officials’ Actions Raise Concerns
While in custody, Ugboaja requested assistance and was subsequently transferred to an ICE detention center in Raymondville, approximately an hour away from the church. Sister Norma Pimentel, who oversees the parish’s charitable activities, noted that Ugboaja required medication during her detention, but federal officials did not allow her access to it. Pimentel described Ugboaja as “very distraught and scared” and indicated that she was confused about the situation.
Lawmakers Intervene in Response to Public Outcry
As news of Sister Ugboaja’s detention spread, federal lawmakers from South Texas took action. U.S. Representative Monica de la Cruz (R-Edinburg) and Representative Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo) reported on social media that they were in direct communication with DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin regarding the incident. De la Cruz emphasized that immigration enforcement should focus on violent criminals rather than individuals like Catholic nuns who pose no threat to the community.
Nun Released Following Lawmaker Intervention
Following the lawmakers’ involvement, it was announced that Sister Ugboaja would be released. Cuellar shared the news on X, stating, “I am happy to share that Sister Letty is on her way home.” Upon this announcement, Pimentel paused her search for documentation proving Ugboaja’s legal status and rushed to the El Valle detention center to bring her home. Video footage captured the emotional moment when Ugboaja, in tears, was embraced by Pimentel.
Increased Awareness Among the Diocese Regarding Immigration Status
Pimentel remarked that until this incident, there had been no concerns regarding the immigration status of international nuns within the diocese. The situation has prompted a newfound awareness, with Pimentel advising fellow sisters to keep documentation on hand that proves their legal status in the United States.
