Rideshare Driver Detained at Camp Pendleton Gate

Family says driver has no criminal history, was awaiting immigration case outcome

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A rideshare driver was detained while dropping off a passenger at the gates of Camp Pendleton, according to his family. The driver, Assim Alkhawaja, is originally from the Middle East and has been living in the U.S. while awaiting the outcome of his pending immigration case. His sister, Arwa Alkhawaja, said he has no criminal history and was simply trying to make a living by driving for a rideshare service and opening a coffee shop business.

Why it matters

This incident raises questions about immigration enforcement practices and the challenges faced by immigrants trying to build a life in the U.S. while navigating the complex legal system. It also highlights the potential risks and uncertainties that rideshare drivers can face, even when operating legally.

The details

Assim Alkhawaja was detained by authorities at the Camp Pendleton gate after being asked for additional identification beyond his driver's license and work permit. His sister said he was then taken to the Otay Mesa Detention Center. At a bond hearing, the immigration judge determined Alkhawaja posed no danger or flight risk, and allowed his release on a $10,000 bond.

  • On Monday, Assim Alkhawaja was detained at the Camp Pendleton gate.
  • On the same day, Alkhawaja had a bond hearing where he was released on a $10,000 bond.

The players

Assim Alkhawaja

A rideshare driver originally from the Middle East who was detained at the Camp Pendleton gate while dropping off a passenger. He has a pending immigration case and was trying to build a life in the U.S. by operating a coffee shop business.

Arwa Alkhawaja

Assim Alkhawaja's sister, who is a U.S. citizen. She expressed confusion and concern over her brother's detention, stating he has no criminal history.

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What they’re saying

“He wanted to come here. He loved coming here. It was his dream.”

— Arwa Alkhawaja, Assim Alkhawaja's sister (NBC San Diego)

“To him, it's a beautiful life, and he wanted to come here and live this life, but not to end up like that.”

— Arwa Alkhawaja, Assim Alkhawaja's sister (NBC San Diego)

What’s next

The Alkhawaja family is waiting to pay Assim's $10,000 bond so he can be released from the Otay Mesa Detention Center in the next few days.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the challenges and uncertainties faced by immigrants trying to build a life in the U.S. while navigating the complex legal system. It raises questions about immigration enforcement practices and the potential risks rideshare drivers can face, even when operating legally.