ICE Arrests Russian National In Philadelphia Wanted by Tajikistan for Alleged Ties to Al-Qaeda
Charlie Kirk Staff
06/04/2025

Federal immigration officials have arrested a man born in Tajikistan and holding Russian citizenship who is wanted in his home country for alleged involvement in organized crime and ties to the terrorist group Al-Qaeda.
The 39-year-old was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on May 23 during an operation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The arrest was carried out by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in coordination with the FBI.
“Arresting individuals linked to terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda reaffirms our unwavering commitment to safeguard the homeland. Through close collaboration with our outstanding partners at the FBI, we have taken decisive action to make our communities safer and prevent potential threats to the American people,” said ERO Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “I commend the dedicated men and women of ICE and the FBI for their tireless efforts and steadfast resolve in protecting this great nation.”
According to ICE, the man originally entered the U.S. on March 21, 2023, at the San Ysidro Pedestrian West port of entry in California. At the time, officials determined that he did not have an immigrant visa and deemed him inadmissible under the Immigration and Nationality Act. He was issued a notice to appear before an immigration judge and allowed temporary entry into the United States under parole.
Tajikistani authorities recently declared him a fugitive. They accuse him of organizing a criminal community and allege he is, or was, affiliated with Al-Qaeda.
Following his arrest last week, the man was placed in ICE custody, where he remains pending his removal from the United States.
Officials are encouraging the public to share any additional information about crimes or suspicious activity by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submitting tips online.
No further details about the man’s identity or the timing of potential removal proceedings have been released.