ICE and DHS dispute 60 Minutes report on deported Malian national

U.S. immigration authorities are challenging a CBS News '60 Minutes' report regarding the deportation of Moussa Diawara, a Malian national who lived in the United States for approximately 25 years. The news segment highlighted Diawara’s family in Texas and his claim that he was deported to Ghana—a country with which he has no connection—despite a judge’s ruling that he should not be returned to Mali due to fears of persecution.

However, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have alleged that Diawara committed immigration fraud. Officials stated that Diawara claimed he would face persecution in Mali because he is gay, a claim they dispute noting he is married to a woman and has children. James Percival, general counsel for DHS, characterized the case as an example of immigration fraud.

The Department of Homeland Security also noted that Ghana provided diplomatic assurances regarding Diawara’s safety. The case has become a focal point in the debate over third-country deportations and the accuracy of media coverage regarding U.S. immigration enforcement.