U.S. authorities have confirmed that a Cuban national was taken into custody on Thursday morning following an evacuation at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in Miramar, Florida. The incident unfolded around 7:15 a.m. when the Cuban migrant was undergoing a routine check at ICE facilities. During this process, he was found carrying a white powdery substance, prompting the activation of emergency protocols, as reported by Fox News.
The situation escalated when a security guard, after noticing the bag of powder, began to feel unwell. This led authorities to evacuate the building and quarantine those present while investigations were conducted to determine the nature of the substance.
Hazmat teams were dispatched to the scene, equipped with protective suits and masks, while sniffer dogs were deployed to search the area. The security guard, who was affected, was transported to the hospital on a stretcher. It remains unclear whether he was directly exposed to the powder or if his symptoms were due to proximity or psychological factors.
The Cuban migrant was also hospitalized as a precaution but was released shortly thereafter, along with the security guard. While official confirmation is pending, there is speculation that the suspicious substance might be "cascarilla" or another element linked to Santería practices. Some Cuban migrants reportedly use such items in hopes of avoiding detention or deportation.
The Cuban man now faces criminal charges related to the incident after being arrested by ICE. This event occurs amidst heightened immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, which has taken a more stringent stance on deporting illegal immigrants, particularly those with criminal records.
Both the Miramar Fire Department and the Broward Sheriff's Office Fire Department responded to the emergency call. Operations at the ICE facility resumed at 9:45 a.m. after receiving the "all clear."
Key Details of the ICE Miramar Incident
What triggered the evacuation at the ICE office in Miramar?
The evacuation was triggered by the discovery of a white powdery substance carried by a Cuban migrant during a routine check at the ICE office.
How did authorities respond to the suspicious powder?
Authorities evacuated the building, quarantined those present, and called in Hazmat teams and sniffer dogs to assess the situation.
What are the potential charges faced by the Cuban man?
The Cuban man faces criminal charges related to the incident, which could include possession of a suspicious substance and causing a public disturbance.