From ABC7 New York · · 1m 20s
Bronx food pantry leader detained by ICE
Alex Nilaj, Open Hand food pantry leader in Bronx, detained by ICE leaves community shaken.
In brief
Alex Nilaj, Open Hand food pantry leader in Bronx, detained by ICE leaves community shaken. Alex Nilaj, a Bronx food pantry leader, was detained by ICE after being ordered removed in 2008, causing community distress as the pantry serves 8,000 people monthly. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Alex Nilaj detained by ICE
Alex Nilaj, a longtime leader of the Open Hand food pantry in the Bronx, was detained by ICE last week.
Food pantry serves 8,000 monthly
The pantry serves 8,000 people a month with residents lining up for fresh produce and staples.
Community reaction
Neighbors say the pantry has become quieter since Nilaj's detention and describe him as a valued community member.
Rep. Richie Torres statement
Rep. Richie Torres says Nilaj is a trusted community figure known to every elected official and civic group in the Bronx.
ICE description
ICE describes Nilaj as an undocumented immigrant from Albania who entered the U.S. 20 years ago and overstayed.
Habeas petition
Nilaj's attorney filed a habeas petition seeking his release while neighbors launched a petition for his return.
Community petition
Residents say the pantry needs Nilaj to remain open and depend on his services, urging his immediate release.
What it means
Alex Nilaj, a Bronx food pantry leader, was detained by ICE after being ordered removed in 2008, causing community distress as the pantry serves 8,000 people monthly.
