Panama Initiates Deportation Flights under U.S.-Funded Strategy

Panama began deporting migrants with criminal records, funded by the U.S., to curb illegal crossings through the Darien Gap jungle. The effort aims to reduce U.S.-bound migration, coinciding with the upcoming U.S. presidential election. The flights are part of a bilateral deal targeting the high number of migrants from various countries.

Panama has launched its first deportation flights for migrants with criminal records, in a move financed by the U.S. government. The initiative, aimed at curbing the flow of mainly U.S.-bound migrants, is part of a broader strategy to address migration issues ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential election.

The initial flight carried 29 Colombians who had been apprehended after crossing the perilous Darien Gap jungle. These deportations are part of a recent agreement between U.S. officials and Panama's President Jose Mulino, who has pledged to end Panama's role as a transit country.

Panama's migration head, Roger Mojica, stated that efforts are ongoing to deport migrants from other nations, though challenges remain, particularly with Venezuelans due to diplomatic tensions. U.S. Department of Homeland Security official Marlen Piñeiro emphasized that the goal is to deter future migrants from using the Darien route, advocating for legal entry into the United States.

(With inputs from agencies.)