DHS Disputes Claims of Lengthy Detention for Skokie Woman at O’Hare
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is disputing claims that Sundas “Sunny” Naqvi, a U.S. Citizen from Skokie, Illinois, was detained for an extended period at O’Hare International Airport upon her return from international travel. The DHS asserts that Naqvi was released within 90 minutes of her arrival.
Initial Reports and Allegations
Reports emerged alleging that Naqvi, 28, and five colleagues – including two other U.S. Citizens and three green card holders – were detained by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) after returning from Istanbul on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Family and friends claimed Naqvi was held for nearly 30 hours and subsequently transferred to detention facilities in Illinois, and Wisconsin. Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison stated that the administration had been “lying” about the situation and detaining American citizens without due process Chicago Sun-Times.
The initial travel plan for the group was to travel to India for work with the German software company SAP. However, the green card holders encountered visa issues preventing transit through Istanbul, leading the group to continue traveling in Europe before returning to the United States Live and Let’s Fly.
DHS Response and Account
The DHS released a statement refuting the claims, stating that Naqvi was not taken into custody and was not transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for detention. According to the DHS, Naqvi arrived at O’Hare at 10:21 a.m. On March 5, 2026, and was referred to secondary inspection for additional screening based on law enforcement checks and a baggage exam. She departed CBP within 90 minutes of her arrival MSN.
Family’s Account and Search Efforts
Naqvi’s family reported attempting to locate her through her phone’s location-sharing feature during the alleged detention. At one point, the phone’s location indicated she was at the Broadview ICE Processing Facility. However, Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt stated that there is no record of Naqvi being booked, detained, or released from the Dodge County jail.
“Curious Travel History” Cited
Both family and Naqvi’s attorney have stated that the only explanation provided by authorities for the initial detention was a “curious travel history” NewsNationNow.
Ongoing Concerns
Commissioner Morrison emphasized the demand for transparency and accountability, expressing concern that such a situation could happen to any U.S. Citizen. He called for protection of civil rights and civil liberties.