BUFFALO, N.Y. — ICE Buffalo Fugitive Operations officers arrested criminal illegal alien and international fugitive Anhelina Polishchuk during a targeted operation Nov. 20. The 40-year-old Ukrainian national, who was identified as an armed and dangerous escape risk, is wanted in her home country for drug trafficking and is the subject of an INTERPOL Red Notice.

“Foreign criminals will not exploit our immigration laws to escape justice in their home countries,” said ICE Buffalo Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Tammy Marich. “Our officers are committed to protecting the public by ensuring criminals are not allowed to freely roam the streets of New York. We will continue to work with our domestic and international law enforcement partners to ensure individuals who commit egregious crimes, like Polishchuk are held to account.

Polishchuk entered the United States through John F. Kennedy International Airport June 16, 2023, exploiting a parole program for Ukrainians established by the previous administration. She attempted to use this program to evade justice within the U.S. but was identified by ICE and international authorities as a criminal fugitive. She is wanted for illegal production, manufacture, purchasing, storage, transportation, and possession of illegal narcotics in Ukraine.

The previous administration’s immigration policies allowed millions of unvetted foreigners, including criminals like Polishchuk, to enter and remain in the country. Now, ICE officers have been empowered to enforce the law and prevent dangerous illegal alien criminals from doing any more harm to American citizens.

Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form .

Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBuffalo .