Federal Judge Demands Return of Colombian Woman Deported to Congo

A federal judge has mandated the Trump administration to promptly return Adriana Maria Quiroz Zapata, a Colombian woman who was wrongfully deported to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Quiroz Zapata, 55, was initially detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement after entering the U.S. in August 2024. Despite her request for asylum being granted, she was deported to the DRC, which refused her entry due to her medical needs. The judge highlighted the illegality of her deportation and the potential for irreparable harm given her health conditions. The administration must provide an update on her return by 5 p.m. on Friday.

Key Details: • Judge Richard J. Leon ordered Quiroz Zapata's return as soon as possible. • The U.S. government must report on the steps taken for her return by 5 p.m. Friday. • Quiroz Zapata suffers from diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypothyroidism. • The DRC refused her entry due to inadequate medical care. • This case highlights ongoing issues with the Trump administration's immigration policies.