Who is Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli? Indian National Detained in US

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained an Indian national in New Jersey over multiple charges, including the alleged sexual assault of a child under 13. The agency identified the individual as Vodela Yashaswi Kottapalli, describing him as an undocumented immigrant. In a statement posted on social media, ICE confirmed that Kottapalli faces pending charges of sexual assault, larceny linked to shoplifting, and public disorder.

“Criminal charges at this stage are allegations and the case will be determined through the judicial process,” the agency added. Kottapalli will remain in custody pending removal proceedings under US immigration law. Authorities have not disclosed the date of arrest, the county where the case was filed, or further details of the alleged offences.

The detention occurs amid a sharp rise in the deportation of Indian nationals from the United States. According to the Indian government, more than 3,800 Indians were deported in 2025 following nationality verification and coordination between the two countries. Officials have not specified how many deportations were linked to criminal charges versus immigration violations.

US authorities emphasise that non-citizens accused or convicted of serious crimes, particularly those involving minors, are prioritised for detention and removal.