Chinese migrant and son, 6, separated after ICE detains father in NYC – as feds claim he ‘refused’ deportation: reports
A Chinese immigrant and his six‑year‑old son were ripped apart by Immigration and Customs Enforcement during a deportation effort in New York City, community activists say.
Fei Zheng, a resident of Astoria, was taken into ICE custody after the conclusion of his immigration hearing at 26 Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan on November 26, with his son Yuanxin left behind. Activist Jennie Spector told NY1, “He said to me, ‘I did what they said I should do. I came in for this check‑in.’ And yet they arrested him and his son.”
Zheng was reportedly seeking asylum and was moved to a detainment facility in Orange County, in the Hudson Valley. The whereabouts of his son remained unknown. Queens Councilwoman Julie Won told PIX 11 that the child was safe and represented by legal counsel.
Federal officials blamed Zheng for the separation, saying he was the only one responsible. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin explained to media that Zheng “had a chance to leave the U.S. with his son and willfully chose not to comply.” She further claimed he “refused to board the plane and was acting so disruptive and aggressive that he endangered the child’s wellbeing,” adding that he “even attempted to escape and abandon his son.”
Spector, who spoke with Zheng while he was held, remarked that he was “trying to put, I think, on a brave face, you know?” She told CBS 2 that he “was tearful during times … that we met because he doesn’t know where his son is and they’re not telling him.”
The incident has drawn criticism from liberal lawmakers, including Mayor‑elect Zohran Mamdani. On X, Mamdani said, “Last week, ICE arrested and separated a father and son after a routine check‑in. Six‑year‑old Yuanxin had just enrolled in the first grade at an elementary school in Astoria. Now he’s in custody, alone. ICE won’t say where. This cruelty serves no one. It must end.”
McLaughlin reiterated that ICE does not separate families; rather, parents are asked whether they wish to be removed with their children or if the child should be placed with a designated safe person. She compared this to the U.S. policy that, if a citizen is caught by police, children would be placed in safe custody. The City noted this approach in its coverage.
Federal officials have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
