Chia Kevin Yang/Laos/Distribution of Methamphetamine, Vehicle Theft

Laotian national Chia Kevin Yang was detained by federal immigration authorities on January 11, 2026. Yang was previously convicted of possession with intent to distribute and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, motor vehicle theft, fleeing police, and driving after license revocation. According to federal records, Yang also faces convictions for controlled substance violations.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement took Yang into custody during a reporting appointment that was expected to be routine. Yang was unexpectedly detained and transferred out of Minnesota to Texas within hours of his arrest due to Operation Metro Surge activities.

Federal officials documented Yang’s drug distribution and vehicle theft convictions in Department of Homeland Security statements released to the public. His arrest reflects ICE’s focus on removing foreign nationals convicted of serious drug trafficking and property crimes.