'They're safe': India updates status of deportees held in Panama
What's the story
The Indian embassy in Panama has confirmed that the Indian migrants deported from the United States are safe and have access to essential amenities at a hotel where they are currently housed. "Embassy team has obtained consular access. We are working closely with the host government to ensure their well-being," the embassy said in a post on X.
Twitter Post
'They are safe and secure'
Panamanian authorities have informed us that a group of Indians have reached Panama from US
— India in Panama, Nicaragua, Costa Rica (@IndiainPanama) February 20, 2025
They are safe and secure at a
Hotel with all essential facilities
Embassy team has obtained consular access
We are working closely with the host Government to ensure their wellbeing pic.twitter.com/fdFT82YVhS
Deportation details
Nearly 300 migrants from various countries deported
The migrants are among nearly 300 people from countries such as Iran, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China. According to Panama's Security Minister, Frank Abrego, these illegal migrants from the US are receiving medical care and food at the hotel as part of a migratory deal between Panama and the US. However, they are not permitted to leave the hotel as arrangements are being made to send them back to their home countries.
Controversy
Criticism and denial of forced detention
Earlier, the Associated Press reported that around 40% of the detainees are unwilling to return to their home countries voluntarily. This raised questions on how long they would be detained in Panama. Some migrants even displayed notes from their hotel windows with messages like "please help us" and "We are not safe in our country."
Transit point
Panama's role in US deportation process
The US has been using Panama as a transit country for deportees, as it is difficult to deport people directly to certain nations. Last Monday, President José Raúl Mulino agreed to make Panama a "bridge" country for deportees, bringing them to the hotel in Panama City via three flights. Costa Rica is also expected to receive a similar group of deportees soon.