Federal Agents Detain Tufts University PhD Student Rumeysa Ozturk
As Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish national and PhD student at Tufts University, made her way to an Iftar dinner in Somerville, Massachusetts, she was unexpectedly detained by federal agents near her residence. The incident has sparked widespread concern, particularly because no formal charges have been filed against her.
Who is Rumeysa Ozturk?
Ozturk was pursuing her doctoral studies at Tufts University under a valid F-1 student visa. She had actively engaged in academic discussions and, in March 2024, co-authored an op-ed in the university’s newspaper, criticizing Tufts’ response to pro-Palestinian activism.
University officials have denied any prior involvement in her arrest, stating that no information was shared with federal agencies before the incident. Tufts President Sunil Kumar expressed concerns about her detainment and mentioned efforts to verify whether her visa had been revoked.
Both the Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and university representatives have raised alarms about the case, particularly following the release of arrest footage.
Arrest Captured on Surveillance Camera
A security camera video, shared by the Muslim Justice League, depicts six plainclothes officers approaching Ozturk as she walked alone. One officer grabbed her arms, causing her to cry out in fear, while another displayed a badge before taking her phone.
Moments later, the officers concealed their faces with masks and sunglasses while restraining her hands behind her back. When they identified themselves as law enforcement, an off-camera voice questioned, “You don’t look like it. Why are you hiding your faces?”
In less than a minute, she was led to an unmarked SUV and taken away.
Transferred to Louisiana Despite Court Order
Following her detention, Ozturk’s legal team filed an emergency petition in a Boston federal court, arguing against her removal from Massachusetts. A judge issued an order stating that she should not be transferred without prior notice.
However, despite this directive, she was relocated to an ICE detention center in Louisiana. It remains unclear whether this transfer occurred before or after the court ruling.
Ozturk is among several international students transferred to Louisiana ICE facilities, including Mahmoud Khalil and Georgetown University fellow Badar Khan Suri.
Her attorney has challenged the legality of her detention, stating that no concrete evidence has been presented to justify her arrest.
Global Response and Legal Efforts
The Turkish government has been actively monitoring the case and remains in contact with Ozturk’s family. The Turkish Embassy has assured that legal and consular assistance is being provided while discussions with U.S. officials continue.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations and legal experts have criticized the lack of transparency in her case, demanding fair legal proceedings and respect for due process.
What Happens Next?
As legal efforts continue and international attention grows, Ozturk’s future remains uncertain. With court challenges ongoing, advocates and officials are closely watching to ensure her rights are upheld and that she receives a fair hearing.