Four Kenyans Face Deportation from the US Over Criminal Convictions

Four Kenyan nationals are facing deportation from the United States after immigration authorities determined that their criminal convictions make them removable under federal law.

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) identified the four men as Newton Njuguna Githiri, Mohamed Chekchekani, Ian Mwangi Irungu and Said Salat Yarow. According to the agency, each is currently subject to immigration proceedings that could result in removal from the country.

Newton Njuguna Githiri was arrested in New Orleans after serving criminal sentences. ICE said he was convicted in Alabama of child sexual abuse and burglary before being transferred into immigration custody.

Mohamed Chekchekani is also awaiting deportation after being detained in Los Angeles. Court records cited by Kenyan media show he was convicted of kidnapping a minor and violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations (RICO) Act, a federal law commonly used to prosecute organised crime.

ICE said Ian Mwangi Irungu and Said Salat Yarow are also facing deportation proceedings. The agency has not disclosed the offences linked to their cases or provided details on the current stage of the legal process.

The cases fall under the Immigration and Nationality Act, which permits the removal of non-citizens convicted of aggravated felonies and certain other serious offences. Deportation proceedings are separate from criminal cases and are handled by immigration courts.

Once ICE begins removal proceedings, an immigration judge decides whether a person should be deported or qualifies for relief under immigration law. Deportation cannot take place until the legal process is complete, and those involved have the right to legal representation at their own expense.

If final removal orders are issued, US authorities will work with the Kenyan government to arrange the men's return. Immigration lawyers say criminal convictions can have significant immigration consequences for non-citizens, including permanent residents and visa holders, if the offences fall within categories that allow deportation.