ICE Detains Nigerian National Convicted of Sexual Assault in Maryland

On August 29, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials in Baltimore apprehended Theophilis Anwana, a Nigerian citizen with a criminal conviction for second-degree sexual assault. This arrest underscores ICE’s continued commitment to removing individuals with serious criminal backgrounds from the United States.

Background and Legal Proceedings

The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services reports that Anwana was sentenced to 20 years in prison following his conviction in Bel Air, Maryland. Since September 2021, he has been subject to a final removal order, mandating his deportation from the U.S. once his sentence is served.

ICE’s Enforcement Actions and Public Safety Focus

ICE’s Baltimore Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) unit confirmed the detention in an official statement released on August 30, 2025. The agency emphasized that Anwana’s arrest is part of their broader mission to protect communities by targeting individuals who pose a threat due to their criminal histories.

“Thanks to the diligent efforts of ICE officers in Baltimore, another dangerous individual with a criminal record has been taken into custody,” the statement declared. Anwana will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

Context and Implications

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigration authorities in balancing enforcement with public safety. According to recent data from ICE, over 80% of individuals removed in fiscal year 2024 had criminal convictions, reflecting a strategic focus on those who have violated U.S. laws.

Similar enforcement actions have been reported nationwide, including the recent detention of a Honduran national convicted of aggravated assault in Texas, illustrating the agency’s nationwide efforts to uphold immigration laws and community safety.

Conclusion

The apprehension of Theophilis Anwana serves as a reminder of ICE’s role in enforcing immigration laws, particularly concerning individuals with serious criminal offenses. As the agency continues to prioritize public safety, such arrests are expected to remain a key component of their operational strategy.