Ghanaian Woman and Son Deported After Detainment in U.S.

A pregnant woman from Ghana, Annabella Gyasi, along with her young son, faced deportation after spending over a week detained in a Washington airport. Her lawyers revealed the information on Friday.

Gyasi, aged 38, arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport on May 19. She was scheduled for a medical appointment for her son, born with severe hand deformities, as documented by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Virginia. Despite holding valid visas, immigration officials detained them. Gyasi reported facing persecution in Ghana and expressed fear of returning.

During their detention, Gyasi experienced pregnancy complications, leading to two hospitalizations. Her lawyers stated that extreme conditions ultimately forced her to leave the U.S. While we’re relieved that Ms. Gyasi and her son will soon be free from this nightmare, no one should be subjected to the inhumane conditions they endured, said Mary Bauer, Executive Director of ACLU Virginia, in a statement.

Gyasi informed guards about their hunger, but was reportedly not given additional food, as per her lawyers. The Department of Homeland Security refuted these claims, stating that all detainees receive appropriate care, medical evaluations, medication, and food.

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a Friday order indicating that Gyasi and her son’s welfare, along with justice, would be best served by their immediate return to Ghana. Previously, Brinkema highlighted immigration officials’ claims that Gyasi’s tourist visas became invalid when she stated her intent to seek asylum in the U.S. and not return home. Gyasi and her son were scheduled to leave for Ghana on Friday evening.