UN chief urges independent probes into ICE detention deaths

The United Nations human rights chief has called for independent investigations into dozens of deaths in U.S. immigration detention centers, citing a sharp increase in fatalities since the start of 2025. In a statement on Friday, June 26, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk demanded prompt, impartial, and effective probes into all deaths in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody and action to prevent further loss of life.

Türk's office stated that at least 52 people have died in ICE holding facilities since January 2025, when President Donald Trump returned to office and launched an aggressive immigration enforcement campaign. According to U.S. government data cited by the UN, 18 people died in the first five months of 2026, with one additional death reported in June. This follows 33 deaths recorded in 2025, a significant rise from the 11 deaths reported in 2024.

The commissioner expressed deep concern over a lack of transparency surrounding the circumstances of the deaths and raised alarms about detention conditions. He highlighted the reported use of solitary confinement, which the UN considers a form of torture after 15 days, and noted that five of...