PANAMA CITY: Deportation flights from Panama for undocumented US-bound migrants who have crossed the dangerous Darien jungle from South America are expected to start soon, according to Marlen Pineiro, from US Department of Homeland Security.
Washington has pledged $6 million to support migrant repatriations from Panama, aiming to reduce irregular crossings at the US southern border.
The program will utilize “large numbers” of charter and commercial flights to send back migrants crossing the Darien Gap, a perilous route between Colombia and Panama. Despite the dangers of this journey, over half a million undocumented migrants, primarily Venezuelans, made the crossing last year.
Panama’s new president, Jose Raul Mulino, who took office on July 1, initially vowed to deport migrants and close the key route, stating that Panama would no longer be a transit point for undocumented migrants. However, he softened his stance recently, acknowledging, “We cannot forcibly repatriate” migrants.
The planned deportation flights come as transit countries like Panama and Mexico face increased pressure from Washington to address the contentious migration issue, especially during a US election year. This initiative highlights the ongoing efforts and challenges in managing migration flows through Central America to the United States.
