Judge Blocked Removal of Minnesota Detainee
A federal judge ordered ICE to keep a Zimbabwean national within the District of Minnesota.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Immigration
Judge Jerry Blackwell issued a restraining order preventing U.S. immigration authorities from removing or transferring Nathan Samudzi. The Yankton man is currently detained at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building.
Why it matters
The order ensures Samudzi remains under the jurisdiction of the federal court while his case proceeds, preventing his immediate removal from the country.
Judge Blackwell issued a restraining order against the Department of Homeland Security, maintaining local jurisdiction over the detainee. The court currently prohibits the transfer of the individual from the District of Minnesota.
The players
Judge Jerry Blackwell
He is the federal judge who issued the restraining order preventing the removal or transfer of the detainee.
Nathan Samudzi
He is a Zimbabwean national and Yankton resident who is currently detained at a federal facility.
Markwayne Mullin
He is the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security named in the federal court order.
The details
Nathan Samudzi, a native of Zimbabwe who is married to a U.S. citizen, was detained again by ICE during the week of September 20, 2026. The court order specifically names Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin as a respondent to the legal action.
Timeline
February 2026: Samudzi was previously detained in St. Louis.
Week of September 20, 2026: Samudzi was detained again by ICE.
Political Context
Opponents of increased judicial oversight argue that such orders interfere with the executive branch's authority to manage immigration enforcement and removals. Conversely, advocates argue that federal court intervention is a vital safeguard to ensure due process for detainees with strong community ties.
This case highlights how federal court orders can halt standard immigration enforcement procedures for residents with active legal challenges. Taxpayers and local residents may see continued legal activity as the court determines the long-term status of the detainee.
The takeaway
The court's decision ensures that the legal process will continue within the state rather than through immediate removal. This outcome underscores the power of federal district courts to influence specific immigration enforcement actions.
Further reading
For broader context on federal court involvement in regional cases, visit the Minnesota Immigration section.
