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Two brothers released after nine-day ICE detention in Mississippi

Apr 30, 2026·Location: Diamondhead, MS

Country of origin: DR Congo

DetainmentDetention ConditionsDue Process ViolationMinorFamilyPublic Space/StreetIn DetentionMississippi
Two brothers released after nine-day ICE detention in Mississippi
Photo via mississippifreepress.org

On April 21, 2026, ICE agents arrested brothers Israel Makoka (18) and Max Makoka (15) at a bus stop in Diamondhead, Mississippi, using 10 unmarked vehicles and zip-ties without prior notice to their host family or school. Israel was shackled during transport to Louisiana and pressured to sign self-deportation papers; Max was isolated in a Texas youth shelter. The detention stemmed from a paperwork issue caused by faulty legal advice. Both brothers were released on April 30, 2026, after nine days in custody and have returned home to their host family while pursuing legal options to remain in the country.

Timeline

Apr 21, 30—Israel pressured by ICE agents to sign self-deportation papers without legal counsel; Max held in isolation without English-speaking staff or meaningful education
Apr 30, 2026—Both brothers released following community and senatorial intervention; returned home
Apr 21, 2026—Israel Makoka (18) and Max Makoka (15) arrested by ICE at their home in Diamondhead, Mississippi; brothers separated; Israel shackled for 7 hours during transport
Apr 21, 2026—Israel held at Central Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Jena; Max transferred to youth shelter near Houston, Texas
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