The Emanet family faced an outpouring of support after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers raided their restaurant, Jersey Kebab, in Haddon Township, New Jersey, on Feb. 25. The raid sparked outrage among customers and community members, highlighting the family’s contributions to the area.
ICE officers arrested Celal and Emine Emanet, handcuffing them to update their case file. The couple has awaited a decision on their green card application since 2016, after a denial and an appeal left them in limbo.
When their son, Muhammed, arrived at work, he found federal agents taking his parents into custody. This marked the realization of their long-standing fears. Authorities released Celal with an ankle monitor, while Emine remains detained at the Elizabeth Detention Center. Their attorney, Joseph Best, confirmed that the couple came to the U.S. from Turkey nearly two decades ago on visas but later fell out of status.
Muhammed expressed gratitude for the community’s support. He emphasized that his family has no criminal record and that Emine poses no risk to public safety. He stated that if ICE deported his mother, the entire family would leave with her.
The couple opened Jersey Kebab in 2021 and has a history of offering food at no cost to those in need. Many customers quickly rallied around the Emanets, describing them as kind and highlighting the injustice of their treatment. Lori Leonard started a GoFundMe campaign for the family, which raised more than $230,000 so far. Leonard noted the Emanets’ contributions to the community, including serving the elderly and homeless.
Haddon Township Mayor Randall Teague lamented the impact of the situation on the family and the community. He promised to support the family during this difficult time.
Commissioner Ryan Linhart condemned the ICE raid as a harmful intimidation tactic. He called detaining individuals with pending citizenship applications a tragic miscarriage of justice. Local leaders continue to stand with the owners of Jersey Kebab.
As the legal process unfolds, the restaurant will remain closed until further notice. The Emanet family navigates this challenging situation with strong community support.
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