Brooklyn student detained by ICE sparks rally outside Tweed Courthouse
News 12 has reached out to ICE for more details on why Diallo was taken into custody and will update this story once more information is available.
Outrage is growing across the city after a Brooklyn public school student was taken into ICE custody following what advocates say was a routine court appearance.
On Thursday morning, elected officials, immigrant advocates, and teachers rallied outside the Tweed Courthouse in Lower Manhattan — demanding the release of Mamadou Mouctar Diallo, a 20-year-old asylum seeker from Guinea and student at Brooklyn Frontiers High School.
“He was doing the right thing. He showed up — and was taken,” said Council Member Rita Joseph. “As a mother and educator, I’m heartbroken.”
Diallo is a rising senior and described by staff as a hardworking student and active member of the school community. Visual arts teacher Alex Whedbee said Diallo was fully invested in classes.
“He was an engaging art student. He learned how to make ceramics with his hands,” Whedbee said. “I worry about him — how he’s doing emotionally, the fear he’s probably feeling, and the trauma of all this.”
Officials say Diallo had recently completed a training program to become a licensed security guard. Council Member Lincoln Restler added that he’s also involved in his local community, even joining the Audubon Society.
Diallo is currently being held in a detention facility in Pennsylvania, according to city officials. Supporters say this case is part of a larger pattern, and they’re calling on all levels of government to prevent more students from being detained in this way.
News 12 has reached out to ICE for more details on why Diallo was taken into custody and will update this story once more information is available.
