Austin dog handler 'inexplicably' detained by ICE during routine check-in

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Seyre 'Mussa' Traore, an Austin dog handler, was detained by U.S. Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) last week, during a routine check-in, according to his attorney.

Friends of Traore, describe him as a dedicated employee at Neighbors Dog Park & Coffee Shop and East Lamar Dog Training and Boarding.

Traore, 30, is from Mauritania in West Africa. His attorney said he was detained on Sept. 11, inexplicably. His attorney told KXAN he has no criminal history and had a work permit as he awaited date in court next year.

According to his attorney Traore entered the country illegally, but had legal documentation to stay in the country, as an asylum seeker.

KXAN checked Travis County, as well as the Texas Department of Public Safety records, and did not find any criminal history for Traore.

According to ICE's online database, Traore is being held in the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center.

Traore's supporters have started a campaign, pushing for answers.

KXAN has reached out to ICE and the Department of Homeland Security and is waiting to hear back. We will update this if any statements are received.

This story will be updated by Reporter Jala Washington.