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Colombian activist detained by ICE after visa overstay, faces deportation amid political tensions

Jun 20, 2026 · Miami, FL, Colombia

Colombian activist detained by ICE after visa overstay, faces deportation amid political tensions

Franklin Humberto Coral-Garrido, a Colombian activist and lawyer aligned with President Gustavo Petro, was detained by ICE on June 16-17, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona while walking with his 12-year-old son. Coral entered the U.S. in December 2015 on a B1/B2 tourist visa valid for six months but remained in the country for approximately ten years. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed a memorandum authorizing his detention and deportation, citing his political activities supporting Petro and opposition to right-wing presidential candidate Abelardo De la Espriella as harmful to U.S. foreign policy interests. Colombian President Petro accused the U.S. of political persecution timed to interfere in Colombia's June 21 presidential runoff election and demanded clarification from the Trump administration. Coral had filed an asylum application in 2016 and held work authorization through 2028 granted by a federal judge, but authorities allegedly informed him the authorization was being canceled. He has been transferred between detention facilities in Phoenix, El Paso, and Louisiana pending formal deportation proceedings.

Timeline

Jun 20, 2026Coral-Garrido transferred between detention facilities in El Paso and Louisiana pending deportation proceedings
Jun 17, 2026Colombian President Gustavo Petro demanded clarification from Trump administration and accused U.S. of political persecution; ordered Colombia's Foreign Ministry to demand Coral-Garrido's release
Jun 16, 2026Coral-Garrido detained by ICE in Phoenix while walking with his son; Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed memorandum authorizing his detention and deportation
Jan 1, 2016Coral-Garrido filed an asylum application
Dec 15, 2015Coral-Garrido entered the U.S. on a B1/B2 tourist visa valid for six months

Sources

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