Tragic Death of Nepali National Subash Shrestha, 34, in ICE Custody Raises Concerns

A somber incident unfolded at the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center (KCIPC) in Karnes City, Texas, where 34-year-old Nepali national Subash Shrestha tragically lost his life while in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on November 13. The precise cause of death remains undetermined, pending the results of an autopsy.

Shrestha’s journey to the United States commenced on September 2, 2023, when he entered the country near Lukeville, Arizona, without inspection, admission, or parole by immigration officials. Subsequently, the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) issued a Notice and Order of Expedited Removal, charging him with inadmissibility under Section 212(a)(7)(A)(i)(I) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) for attempting to enter as an intended immigrant without the requisite immigrant visa, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Originally from Barabise-6, Sindulpalchok, Nepal, Shrestha paid a substantial sum to human traffickers to facilitate his entry into the USA without a visa. On September 9, USBP transferred him to Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) San Antonio, where he was held at KCIPC for ongoing immigration proceedings.

The tragic turn of events occurred on November 13 when ERO received reports of an unresponsive detainee. Despite prompt medical intervention, Shrestha was pronounced dead.

In response to the incident, ICE has adhered to its protocols, notifying pertinent components such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Office of Inspector General, and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility. The Embassy of Nepal in Washington, D.C., has been informed of Shrestha’s passing, and ERO San Antonio staff has communicated with his next of kin.