New York “No Name Given” License Sparks Federal Immigration Clash After Trucker’s Arrest

A commercial truck driver from India was detained by federal immigration agents in Oklahoma. The arrest has ignited a political firestorm over state licensing procedures. The driver held a valid New York commercial driver’s license issued under the name “NO NAME GIVEN Anmol.”

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took Anmol into custody last month. The arrest occurred during a routine truck inspection on Interstate 40. Authorities confirmed his unlawful immigration status, triggering removal proceedings.

Federal Authorities Raise Alarm Over Commercial Licensing

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Anmol entered the U.S. illegally in 2023. He was subsequently released into the country by the Biden administration. His New York-issued license was a Class A CDL valid until 2028.

The license notably featured a “REAL ID” star. This indicates it met federal identity standards. The unusual “NO NAME GIVEN” designation has become a central point of controversy.

A DHS press release highlighted significant safety concerns. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin called the situation dangerous. She stated that allowing illegal immigrants to operate 18-wheelers with hazardous materials poses a serious risk. McLaughlin also criticized New York’s licensing procedures directly.

New York DMV Challenges Federal Account

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles strongly contested ICE’s statements. A DMV official argued the license was issued in full compliance with federal law. They stated Anmol possessed valid federal work authorization at the time.

The department explained that single-name individuals are not uncommon. They defended the “NO NAME GIVEN” entry as a standard procedure in such cases. This rebuttal sets up a direct conflict with the federal narrative.

This incident is not isolated. It follows increased national scrutiny of commercial licenses held by unauthorized immigrants. Another Indian national, Harjinder Singh, was recently indicted for vehicular homicide in Florida. He also held a commercial license from California despite reported testing failures.

The detention of Anmol underscores a growing tension between state and federal immigration enforcement. The case of the “No Name Given” license highlights critical gaps in a fragmented system, raising urgent questions about public safety and regulatory alignment.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Anmol and why was he detained?

Anmol is an Indian national who entered the U.S. illegally in 2023. ICE detained him in Oklahoma after discovering his invalid immigration status during a truck inspection.

What is unusual about his driver’s license?

His New York commercial license listed his name as “NO NAME GIVEN Anmol.” It was a valid Class A CDL with a REAL ID star, despite his immigration status.

How did New York State respond to the arrest?

The New York DMV challenged ICE’s account. They stated the license was issued legally because Anmol had valid federal work authorization documents at the time.

Why is the Department of Homeland Security concerned?

DHS asserts it is dangerous for unauthorized immigrants to hold commercial licenses. They worry about individuals operating large trucks and transporting hazardous materials on public roads.

Have there been similar cases recently?

Yes. Another Indian national, Harjinder Singh, was indicted for vehicular homicide in Florida. He also held a commercial driver’s license from California despite being in the country unlawfully.