Columbia Student's Detention Spurs Campus Vigil, Trump Intervenes for Release
February 26, 2026
A Columbia University student, Elaina Aghayeva, was detained by DHS agents who allegedly misrepresented themselves, prompting swift responses from campus and city officials.
Mamdani revealed on social media that he alerted Trump to the arrest, and Trump reportedly agreed to secure Aghayeva’s release.
Columbia’s acting president stated the university is gathering information, will inform the student’s family, and will provide legal support, while keeping the student’s identity and immigration status private.
The story is developing, with authorities and outlets urging readers to stay tuned for updates.
The incident feeds into a broader national debate over immigration enforcement, campus safety, and due process, including related legal rulings and policy tensions.
Colleges are balancing immigration enforcement with campus safety and due process amid evolving state and university policies.
Context includes ongoing debates about enforcement under the current administration and student concerns about safety and housing protections.
New York City officials and Columbia officials criticized ICE’s actions, calling for legal protocol adherence and judicial warrants for access to housing.
DHS and some brands have yet to comment; Columbia and local reporters continue coverage of the developing story.
Columbia announced an emergency campus vigil at noon, signaling renewed mobilization and concern on campus.
The coverage includes reporting by The Associated Press and reactions from the university community.
Columbia and its community have protested the incident, citing concerns about due process and campus surveillance.
Summary based on 21 sources
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Sources

The Verge • Feb 26, 2026
DHS reportedly detained a Columbia University student and content creator
The Guardian • Feb 26, 2026
Columbia says DHS detained student after agents entered university building