Elmina Aghayeva, a student at Columbia University, was detained by federal immigration authorities on the morning of March 14, 2024. Around 6:30 a.m., agents from the Department of Homeland Security took Aghayeva into custody from a residential building owned by the university. Following her release, Aghayeva addressed her situation through an Instagram story, expressing gratitude for the support she received.
Columbia’s Acting President, Claire Shipman, informed the university community via email that federal agents gained access to the campus under the pretense of searching for a “missing person.” The university characterized this description as a misrepresentation intended to facilitate entry into non-public housing on campus.
In her Instagram story, Aghayeva stated, “Hi guys. I am so grateful for every one of you. I just got out a little while ago. I am safe and okay. In an Uber on the way back home. I am so sorry but I am in complete shock over what happened and my phone is blowing up with calls from reporters. I need a bit of time to process everything. I will come back soon but please don’t worry.”
The incident has raised serious concerns about the methods employed by federal authorities to access educational institutions. Columbia University has expressed its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of its students, emphasizing the importance of a supportive campus environment.
Aghayeva, who has a significant following on social media, is likely to continue drawing attention to her experience. The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in educational settings, particularly as institutions strive to maintain safe spaces for all students.
As the situation develops, there will likely be further discussions and reactions from both the university administration and student body. Aghayeva’s experience could lead to broader conversations about the intersection of immigration policy and education, prompting institutions across the country to consider their own protocols in similar situations.
Updates will follow as more information becomes available regarding the implications of this incident for Aghayeva and the university community.
