Indian musician Pritesh Walia was detained by ICE on August 2, according to a statement posted on his Instagram account. The message, written by someone named Liza managing the account, said Walia was taken into custody after returning to Los Angeles and later transferred to the Adelanto ICE Processing Center. His phone and other belongings were confiscated, leaving him without access. No official confirmation has come from ICE. The statement noted that family and attorneys are working to secure his release. Walia, born in India, moved to the US for studies and earned degrees from the Musician’s Institute, Berklee College of Music, and the New England Conservatory. He held an O-1B artist visa. In 2023 he was diagnosed with several health conditions that halted performances. Online speculation suggests the detention may relate to visa status. The case follows increased ICE activity at airports, prompting warnings to visa holders about travel.
