Dauphin County officials are raising concerns about the recent detention of five Bhutanese residents by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These individuals, known as the "Bhutanese Five," are legal permanent residents and long-time members of the Bhutanese refugee community in the area. They have been transferred to out-of-state detention facilities, despite having legal status in the United States.
According to ABC27, the detainees include fathers and husbands who have lived in Dauphin County for years, contributing to the community by working, paying taxes, and raising families. One of the detainees' sisters stated that her brother legally entered the U.S. in 2012 through a refugee program initiated by President George W. Bush and continued under President Obama. He previously faced legal issues but has no current charges against him.
Dauphin County Commissioner Justin Douglas expressed frustration, emphasizing that these individuals are integral to the community's fabric. During a press conference at the Pennsylvania Capitol, he urged residents to contact federal representatives to advocate for the detainees' release and reunification with their families. State Senator Patty Kim and other Democratic lawmakers criticized the detentions, arguing they reflect a misunderstanding of the refugees' legal status and history of ethnic cleansing in Bhutan.
ICE has not provided specific reasons for the arrests. However, the agency maintains that all enforcement actions comply with federal laws and policies. As reported by Local 21 News, community leaders continue to call for transparency and support from state and federal leaders to protect legal residents in Pennsylvania.