The Canton Wok restaurant in Lewiston has closed its doors after its owner, Xing Feng Dong, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on May 6.
Dong, a 46-year-old Chinese national, is currently held without bail at the Cumberland County Jail in Portland. The records do not indicate why he was arrested.
Dong’s brother, Xing Bi Dong, expressed confusion and concern over the arrest. Speaking through a translator, he said, “He just hopes the government can give his brother a chance.” He described his brother as “a hard worker, a nice person, he has two kids, and he is a good boss for this restaurant.”
Xing Bi Dong added that his brother was working with immigration authorities to obtain his green card and does not understand why he was taken into custody.
“He doesn’t understand why the government took his brother to jail and left them feeling very sad, left the kids with no father,” Xing Bi Dong said.
The closure of Canton Wok, which has been open on Lisbon Street for two decades, has left around eight employees, including Xing Bi Dong, out of work. The arrest has also raised concerns within Lewiston’s immigrant community.
Iman Osman, executive director of the Lewiston Auburn Youth Network, released a statement on the matter.
“I join our community in expressing deep concern over the recent arrest of Dong, a valued member of Lewiston’s immigrant community and a respected local business owner. While we continue to seek clarity on the specifics of his detention, this incident has undeniably intensified fear and instability among immigrant families in our community. The ripple effects of such enforcement actions extend far beyond a single arrest. Many in our community — particularly those from immigrant and marginalized backgrounds — now face heightened anxiety, with reports of individuals avoiding public spaces, essential services, and even routine travel due to fears of collaboration between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. This climate of fear undermines the trust and cohesion that our community relies upon, disproportionately impacting hard working residents who contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of Lewiston.”
Xing Bi Dong said the family has reached out to state and local officials for assistance.
There is no indication if the restaurant will reopen.
