'Chained like criminals': Ecuadorian mother and daughter detained by ICE return to Guayaquil

Ecuadorian mother Grace Calero and her daughter Giulianna Carriel have returned to Guayaquil, Ecuador, after enduring what they described as "days of horror" in the United States. The pair were detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on August 20, 2026, following a serious traffic accident in Kissimmee, Florida.

Calero, 39, and her 19-year-old daughter arrived at Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo Airport with minimal belongings, clinging to hope for safety. Calero recounted the ordeal, stating, "I arrive with the pain of having been chained as if we were criminals." The incident occurred after they sought emergency medical attention at a local hospital.

Carriel, who suffers from a diagnosed depression, described the traumatic experience. She explained that an ICE agent arrived at the emergency room, initially claiming to conduct routine questioning, but ultimately detained them. Carriel reported being sedated and experiencing a panic attack that led to convulsions upon witnessing her mother's detainment. Both mother and daughter stated they were shackled, questioning the necessity of such measures.

Calero expressed deep concern for her daughter's well-being, particularly her need for medication due to her diagnosed depression. She pleaded with authorities to ensure her daughter received her necessary treatment. Despite Calero possessing a valid U.S. work permit until 2029, they were detained after the accident. Although they opted for voluntary return, Calero indicated that legal action is being pursued to investigate alleged procedural irregularities.

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I arrive with the pain of having been chained as if we were criminals.