Teen Brothers Studying in U.S. Speak Out After Getting Detained by ICE, ‘Shackled’ During Transport

**Teen Brothers Detained by Immigration Officials Speak Out After Community Support Leads to Release**

Two teenage brothers from the Republic of the Congo, who were detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while waiting for their school bus, have been released following an outcry from their local community. Israel Makoka, 18, and his 15-year-old brother Max were detained in Diamondhead, Mississippi, on April 21, igniting a wave of outrage and support from fellow residents and advocacy groups.

The Makoka brothers arrived in the United States on student visas, entering the country in 2023 and 2024 respectively. However, the boys faced allegations of violating the terms of their visas after they transferred schools, a move that led to their detention. The situation quickly escalated, prompting local residents to rally together in support of the brothers.

Gail Baptiste, the boys’ host mother, played a pivotal role in the efforts to secure their release. She reported receiving assistance from federal representatives and highlighted the community’s commitment to helping the boys. “People came together and really became united in this situation,” Baptiste stated. Her efforts included reaching out to the office of Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, which helped connect them with a reputable immigration attorney.

Reflecting on their experience, Israel expressed deep gratitude for the support they received. “I’m grateful to be back with my family,” he shared, emphasising the warmth they received upon their release. Max echoed his brother’s sentiments, expressing joy at returning to school where friends and teachers welcomed him back.

Describing their time in detention, the brothers shared contrasting feelings about their ordeal. While Max initially tried to maintain a positive outlook during the detention, he later admitted that the situation became overwhelming. “I was like, ‘OK, we’re just going to figure it out. I’ll be positive,’” he recalled, adding that it soon felt “rough.” In stark contrast, Israel recounted a particularly traumatic aspect of his detention, stating that he was shackled for six hours, confined around his waist, arms, and feet. “I was so uncomfortable,” he expressed.

The events surrounding their detention raised questions about the handling of immigrant students in the United States. The Baptiste family had sought temporary guardianship of the boys following difficulties at their previous school, Piney Woods School. Despite taking legal steps, they were reportedly unaware that transferring schools could affect the boys’ immigration status. The Department of Homeland Security cited a violation of the brothers’ visa terms due to non-attendance at Piney Woods as grounds for their detention.

Amy Maldonado, the immigration lawyer representing the brothers, condemned the decision to detain minors, stating that there was “no need to handcuff the children and drag them off.” Her comments highlight growing concerns about the treatment of young immigrant students and the potential consequences of bureaucratic miscommunications.

Witnessing her guardianship documents dismissed by immigration officials was particularly distressing for Gail. “This is worth nothing,” she recalled one officer telling her, prompting further questions about the treatment of families in similar situations. Additionally, she revealed that ICE agents informed her that someone had reported the presence of “two African kids at Hancock,” sparking their detention.

Despite this troubling incident, Israel and Max are now adjusting back to their routines and have expressed hopes that their experience may lead to positive changes for other families facing similar circumstances. “I do want this to make a difference for other people, other kids, other families, if at all possible,” Gail Baptiste commented.

The Makoka brothers’ release serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that community support and advocacy can have on vulnerable individuals. Their case continues to draw attention to immigration policies and the treatment of minors, sparking discussions about how systems can be improved to protect young individuals navigating complex circumstances. As the boys return to school and normalcy, their story remains a poignant example of resilience amid adversity.