A video of a woman being taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers at Denver International Airport has gone viral, prompting strong reactions online. The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed the arrest and provided details about the individual’s immigration status.

On July 20, 2026, ICE arrested Chantal Alejandra Morales Rojas, a national of Ecuador. According to a statement from DHS obtained by Timcast News, Morales Rojas entered the United States on October 20, 2024, on a visa that authorized her stay until January 4, 2025. She remained in the country after that date, in violation of federal immigration law. She is currently in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

The video, originally posted on Instagram by @ADANTZKER, shows Morales Rojas being escorted through the airport amid confrontations from bystanders. One person in the footage claims she was “targeted” and asserts she was in the country legally. The clip has been widely shared, with some users describing the detention as an “abduction” and criticizing Southwest Airlines for alleged cooperation.

DHS pushed back against those claims in its response:

“On July 20, 2026, ICE arrested Chantal Alejandra Morales Rojas, an illegal alien from Ecuador. She entered the country on October 20, 2024, on a visa that would allow her to stay in the country until January 4, 2025. In violation of our nation’s laws, she overstayed her visa. She remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

Being in detention is a choice. We encourage all illegal aliens to take control of their departure with the CBP Home App. The United States is offering illegal aliens $2,600 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.”

The CBP Home app, launched as part of broader enforcement efforts, provides a pathway for individuals without legal status to voluntarily depart the United States with financial assistance and travel support. Officials have repeatedly stated that those who choose not to self-deport face arrest and removal with limited options for future legal reentry.

As of Wednesday morning, Morales Rojas remains in federal custody according to DHS.

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