A Johns Hopkins University researcher, Fatima Ameaka, has been arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement amid fresh crackdown on illegal migrants at U.S. airports.

The Cameroonian becomes on of those arrested in visa expiration in recent days. 

She was detained by ICE officers at Baltimore Washington International Airport this week.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said ICE agents arrested Ms Fmeaka at the airport on Tuesday for overstaying a visa that expired on June 13, 2024. 

A Johns Hopkins spokesperson said, “The university understands the fear and concern this instills in members of our community. 

Dr. Ameaka was traveling in a personal capacity, and though we cannot comment on the specifics of her situation, we want to assure our community that the university is actively working to provide support for Dr. Ameaka, including ensuring she has access to legal representation.”

The university said it was working to get Ms Ameaka a legal representation.

Meanwhile, an online fundraiser by one of her friends, has grossed over $40,000.

According to ABC News, Ms Ameaka has a work authorisation permit until 2029 and a pending asylum case. She is an employee at the Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Ms Ameaka’ arrest and detention comes as ICE officials expand crackdown on immigration by going after visa overstayers.