#USA #TX – A Roman Catholic nun was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers on Sunday while walking to church in her habit in South Texas, only to be released hours later after intervention by members of Congress.
Sister Leticia “Letty” Ugboaja, a Nigerian-born nun and registered nurse who had served the Rio Grande Valley community for nearly a decade, was stopped by ICE agents on June 28 as she headed to Our Lady of Sorrows Church in McAllen, just miles from the U.S.-Mexico border.
Diocese officials and the parish confirmed the detention in statements shared on social media, prompting an outpouring of support and prayers from the local Catholic community. Church leaders described Ugboaja, a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, as a compassionate figure known for her work as a nurse and her dedication to serving others.
U.S. Reps. Monica De La Cruz (R-Texas) and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) said they worked quickly with federal officials, including contacts at the Department of Homeland Security, to secure her release. Ugboaja was freed later that evening and returned home.
No information was immediately released about the specific reasons for the stop or Ugboaja’s immigration status. Sister Norma Pimentel of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley and other local leaders praised Ugboaja’s contributions, noting her positive impact on patients and the community.
As of Monday, Ugboaja was reported safe and back with her community. The Catholic Diocese of Brownsville and the parish continued to call for prayers for her well-being.
Image: Sr. Letty with Sr. Norma Pimental post-incident.
