🔥 Trending ICE Releases Nun Detained While Walking to Mass in Texas

On June 28, 2026, Sister Leticia Ugboaja, a Roman Catholic nun and registered nurse, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in McAllen, Texas, while she was walking to Sunday Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows Church ¹²³. The incident occurred just miles from the U.S.-Mexico border ¹⁶.

Details of the Arrest and Release

Sister Ugboaja, a 56-year-old Nigerian national and a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, was detained while dressed in her habit ¹²³⁴. She is employed as a registered nurse at South Texas Health System ¹.

Her detention quickly drew attention from federal lawmakers and religious communities, sparking debate over U.S. immigration policies ⁵. Following intervention from federal lawmakers, Sister Ugboaja was released from custody later the same day, June 28, 2026 ⁴⁶⁷.

Lingering Questions

Despite her swift release, questions continue to mount regarding the reasons behind ICE's decision to arrest Sister Ugboaja ³⁴. The Catholic Diocese of Brownsville confirmed her detention by agents as she was on her way to attend Mass ³. The incident has highlighted ongoing scrutiny of immigration enforcement practices, particularly in border regions ⁵.