Viral sensation detained briefly by ICE for immigration violation
Khaby Lame, the 25-year-old TikTok megastar known globally for his silent comedic reactions, was briefly detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after allegedly overstaying his visa. The Italian national was taken into custody on June 6 at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada, according to an official statement from ICE.
The arrest quickly gained attention online, fueled by a viral post from social media influencer Lo Boudon, known for his ties to Barron Trump. Boudon claimed responsibility for tipping off authorities about Lame’s immigration status. “President Trump’s ICE just officially arrested far-left TikToker, Khaby Lame, whom I reported as an illegal alien,” he posted on X. “I discovered he was an illegal who overstayed an invalid VISA, evaded taxes, and I personally took action to have him deported.”
U.S. immigration confirms overstay, denies further infractions
ICE later confirmed that Lame, full name Seringe Khabane Lame, had entered the United States on April 30 and remained in the country beyond the terms of his visa. “U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Seringe Khabane Lame, 25, a citizen of Italy, June 6, at the Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada, for immigration violations,” the agency said.
Authorities stated that Lame was released the same day and has since departed the United States voluntarily. No further legal action has been taken against him. There was no public evidence to support claims of tax evasion or other criminal activity.
Who is Khaby Lame?
Khaby Lame rose to international fame for his signature silent critiques of over-complicated life hacks on TikTok. His unique format and deadpan expressions earned him a massive global following. As of 2025, he is the most-followed creator on the platform.
Lame’s influence has extended beyond social media. In recent years, he has been featured in Fortune’s 40 Under 40 and Forbes’ 30 Under 30 lists. In 2024, he was recognized as one of Forbes’ top 10 content creators. He also holds the title of UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and recently visited his birth country, Senegal, to meet with children in a Dakar shelter.
Online reaction and political undertones
Lame’s brief detention has stirred debate online, especially given the political undertones of Boudon’s statements. While some social media users expressed surprise and disappointment at the situation, others raised questions about the increasing use of immigration enforcement as a tool in culture war narratives.
As of now, neither Lame nor his representatives have publicly commented on the incident. However, with the global spotlight still fixed on him, the episode is unlikely to fade from public conversation anytime soon.
