Gay gamer detained by ICE at compliance appointment, faces deportation to Cameroon
Feb 17, 2026 · Maryland, Cameroon
DetainmentRefugee/Asylum SeekerBlackLGBTQ+VisaLitigationAsian/Pacific IslanderWork AuthorizationICE/USCIS OfficeMaryland

Ludovic Mbock, a 38-year-old competitive gamer from Cameroon, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on February 17, 2026, during a routine work permit renewal check-in at the Baltimore ICE office. Mbock legally entered the U.S. as a teenager and has lived in Maryland for 18 years. He was transferred across multiple states during 25 days in detention. His lawyer and family fear deportation to Cameroon, where same-sex activity is criminalized and he faces danger as an openly gay man. A federal judge ruled he will be held for 10 days pending a bond hearing in Immigration Court.
Timeline
Feb 17, 2026—Ludovic Mbock detained by ICE during routine work permit renewal check-in at Baltimore ICE office
Feb 17, 2026—Mbock transferred across multiple states in detention; federal judge ordered 10-day hold pending bond hearing
Sources
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