US data shows that in the first five months of this year; 18 people had died in ICE detention. A further case of death in ICE custody has been reported this month. In 2025, a total of 33 deaths were registered, compared with 11 in 2024.

The lack of transparency and clarity surrounding the circumstances of these deaths in custody undermines accountability for them, the High Commissioner added.

“I call for prompt, independent, impartial and effective investigations into all deaths in ICE custody. Those responsible for violations of the law must be held to account, and the rights of the victims’ families to truth, justice and reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence must be upheld,” said Türk.

These deaths occurred in a context of broad expansion of the US immigration detention system, with ICE currently holding over 60,000 individuals compared to approximately 40,000 in early 2025, according to the latest official data.

There are plans to further increase the detention capacity up to 90,000 people by the end of 2026.

Detainees, who include entire families with children and medically vulnerable people, are frequently reported to face inhuman conditions of detention and treatment, including inadequate healthcare and exposure to disease outbreaks in overcrowded facilities.

Turk noted that there have been concerning allegations regarding the use of force. Additionally, five of the officially reported deaths in 2026 were classified as suicides.

A lack of information regarding the whereabouts of detainees during transfers has been reported, causing significant distress among families, while prolonged uncertainty surrounding legal status and processes contributes to psychological distress among detainees.

Türk also expressed alarm over the reported use of solitary confinement, which should be an exceptional measure and, particularly when prolonged or indefinite, could amount to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.

“All these factors exacerbate vulnerability and raise serious concerns as to whether some of these deaths in ICE custody could have been prevented,” said the High Commissioner.

Türk urged U.S. authorities to prioritize alternatives to holding migrants, stating that detention should be an exceptional last resort. He emphasized that detention must be avoided for pregnant women, people with serious medical or mental health conditions, and all children.

The UN rights chief also demanded that U.S. detention centers meet international human rights standards. He said facilities must eliminate overcrowding and guarantee immediate access to healthcare, legal representation, family notifications, and translators.

To prevent abuse, Türk called for the full restoration of independent oversight bodies. He added that the U.S. Congress must step up its scrutiny of immigration enforcement and public funding to ensure compliance with international law.

Additionally, Türk condemned the ongoing "dehumanization and criminalization" of migrants and refugees. He voiced strong support for the lawyers, journalists, faith-based organizations, and civil society groups advocating for migrant rights.

He warned that no individual should be sent back to a country where they could face serious human rights violations or permanent harm.