DHS Seeks Custody of Murder Suspect Deported, Re-released

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has formally requested that Florida officials hand over an illegal immigrant from Bangladesh accused of a brutal murder. The suspect, identified as Akbor Miah, was reportedly deported from the United States during the Trump administration, only to re-enter the country illegally and subsequently be released by the Biden administration. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a detainer on Miah, signaling their intent to take him into federal custody once state legal proceedings are concluded.

Allegations Against Akbor Miah

Miah is facing a first-degree murder charge in the death of his sister-in-law, Monica Islam. Prosecutors allege that Miah, who may have also used the alias Shahidul Islam, shot and killed Monica Islam on May 2, 2025. She disappeared after leaving her job at a convenience store in Eustis, Florida, where she worked with Miah. Her body was discovered hours later in Mount Dora, having sustained a fatal gunshot wound.

Authorities have reportedly uncovered significant evidence linking Miah to the crime. According to investigators, DNA belonging to Monica Islam was found in Miah’s vehicle. Additionally, a bullet was recovered from the passenger-side door, and evidence suggests the passenger window had been shattered. These findings were presented by prosecutors as part of their case.

A History of Immigration Violations

Miah’s immigration history, as detailed by DHS, paints a complex picture. He initially entered the U.S. in 2016, during the Obama administration. His presence in the country came to the attention of ICE in February 2018, and an immigration judge issued a final order for his removal later that same year.

Despite the removal order, Miah was deported to Bangladesh in January 2019, under the Trump administration. However, officials state that he subsequently re-entered the United States illegally, a serious federal offense. He was then released into the U.S. by the Biden administration on March 19, 2022, before the alleged murder occurred.

Prosecution and Federal Interest

The case has drawn significant attention, with state prosecutors seeking the death penalty for Miah. A Lake County grand jury has indicted him on a charge of premeditated first-degree murder. State Attorney Bill Gladson indicated that investigators discovered evidence suggesting Miah conducted numerous suspicious internet searches on the morning of the killing.

Further complicating the timeline, prosecutors allege that Miah rented a vehicle and fled to New York following the shooting. His escape was cut short through a coordinated effort involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, culminating in his arrest by the U.S. Marshals Service. He was then extradited back to Florida to face the murder charges.

DHS Statement on Enforcement

The DHS has emphasized its commitment to enforcing immigration laws, particularly in cases involving serious criminal activity. Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis stated, “This illegal alien from Bangladesh has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting his own sister-in-law in Florida. He then thought he could evade justice by fleeing to the sanctuary state of New York. Thanks to our law enforcement partners, this criminal illegal alien has been arrested and is off our streets.”

Bis further elaborated on the ICE detainer, explaining its purpose: “ICE has lodged a detainer so he can never be loose in our country again.” This action underscores the federal government’s intention to ensure Miah faces immigration consequences after any sentence he may receive in the state murder case.

Broader Immigration Policy Context

This case highlights ongoing debates surrounding immigration enforcement and the release of individuals into the U.S. who have prior deportation orders or criminal charges. The fact that Miah was allegedly deported and later re-entered the country, eventually being released by the current administration before being charged with murder, has become a focal point in discussions about border security and the effectiveness of current immigration policies.

The involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies, from local police to federal marshals and ICE, demonstrates the complex nature of such cases. The joint effort that led to Miah’s apprehension in New York underscores inter-agency cooperation in tracking down fugitives, regardless of their immigration status.

Conclusion

As Akbor Miah awaits trial for the murder of Monica Islam, the DHS’s request for his custody signifies a continued focus on immigration enforcement for individuals accused of severe crimes. The case serves as a stark example of the challenges faced by law enforcement and immigration authorities when dealing with individuals who have crossed borders illegally and are subsequently implicated in violent offenses.