A viral story has rocked the Zimbabwean community abroad after reports claimed that 16 Zimbabwean nationals were detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and are set to be deported on November 7, 2025.
According to online sources, the group includes individuals from several U.S. states — mainly Texas, California, New York, Florida, and Illinois — who reportedly ran into a range of immigration and legal issues. Among those listed are Tendai Moyo (Dallas, TX), Nyasha Kunaka (Houston, TX), Tatenda Phiri (Austin, TX), Farai Ncube (San Antonio, TX), Chipo Taderera (Fort Worth, TX), Brian Sibanda (New York, NY), Lerato Dube (Chicago, IL), Kuda Gwanzura (Phoenix, AZ), Rufaro Banda (Miami, FL), Tafadzwa Jiri (Denver, CO), Memory Lunga (Boston, MA), Tawanda Chikomo (Seattle, WA), Rudo Pasi (San Diego, CA), Kelvin Mavhunga (Detroit, MI), Shamiso Zuze (Minneapolis, MN), and Ashley Vheremu (San Francisco, CA).
ICE officials reportedly cited multiple reasons for deportation, including expired student and visitor visas, overstayed work permits, and unresolved immigration filings. A few of the cases reportedly involve minor legal infractions, such as driving without proper documentation or working outside visa restrictions.
The story has triggered widespread discussion on social media under the hashtags #ZimbabweansInAmerica and #ICEDeportations, with many users calling for legal aid and policy reform. Diaspora community groups in the U.S. are now offering support and legal assistance as deportation proceedings continue.
