ICE determines Uber driver arrested on rape charges not subject to removal

BOSTON — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have determined that Mayanja Daudah, the Uber driver charged with two counts of rape following an alleged sexual assault early Saturday morning, is not subject to removal from the country.

According to an ICE official, the organization can only remove a foreign citizen if they are illegally present in the country. After investigation, ICE determined that Daugah, 37, is not subject to removal.

ICE will continue to monitor his criminal proceedings.

Daudah is a Ugandan citizen, according to a release from Massachusetts State Police.

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The alleged sexual assault occurred near the Hatch Shell in Boston overnight Saturday; law enforcement received the report of the incident around 1:15 a.m. An investigation by authorities led to the arrest of Daudah, who currently lives in Waltham.

Police said the victim is an adult female and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

"That's really scary," Boston native Molly Hanlon said. "I know my mom always warns me, she's always worried about Uber and I think it's obviously important to be aware, make sure they know your name. But it's scary, it's things that you don't think happen."

State Police Crime Scene Services personnel and a chemist for Mass. State Police collected the potential evidence for forensic analysis, and Mass. State Police are investigating the matter.

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An Uber spokesperson released a statement, calling the incident "horrible" and saying they'll help authorities with the investigation.

"What's been reported is horrible and something no one should ever go through," Uber said. "We stand ready to support law enforcement with their investigation."

Uber also said it's increasing its safety features, and said riders can call 911 directly through the app while sharing their location with their GPS technology.

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Some Uber riders say they already use some of the app's safety features, but said crimes like this are just another reminder to be extra cautious with the service.

"I think it's convenient and I think it's a thing people need, and most of the time it's better to not walk home to take an Uber instead," Hanlon said.

Daudah was being held on $25,000 bail, but it has since been increased to $100,000.

He is set to be arraigned at Boston Municipal Court on Monday.

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