Panama Deports 130 Indian Migrants Under US Repatriation Deal

Panama has deported 130 Indian migrants who had entered the country through the perilous Darien jungle. The deportation, which took place on Friday, was part of a repatriation agreement signed with the United States in July 2024. This marks the first deportation outside the Americas under this deal, with the primary goal of reducing irregular migration into the US.

A Dangerous Journey Through the Darien Gap

The Darien Gap, a remote and treacherous jungle between Colombia and Panama, has become a key route for migrants from South America attempting to reach the United States. Despite the dangers, including attacks by criminal groups, over half a million migrants crossed the Darien Gap last year, with the majority being Venezuelan nationals.

However, migrants from other countries, such as India, have also begun to use this hazardous route. Transit countries like Panama and Mexico are under increasing pressure from the US to take action and curb irregular migration.

Repatriation Under the US-Panama Deal

The deportation of these 130 Indian migrants was part of a broader US-backed initiative to tackle irregular migration. The United States has pledged $6 million to support the repatriation of migrants from Panama, with the hope of discouraging dangerous and illegal crossings into the US.

Roger Mojica, Panama’s director of migration, confirmed that the Indian migrants were returned to New Delhi via a charter flight. He emphasized that the deportation was part of Panama’s ongoing efforts to address “irregular migration.”

At a press conference, US Security Attaché Marlen Pineiro praised Panama’s cooperation, stating, “Irregular migration cannot continue.” She also highlighted the growing urgency of tackling migration as a critical issue.

Pressure in a US Election Year

As the US gears up for its election year, the issue of migration remains highly contentious. The deal signed between Panama and the US allows for the deportation of migrants with criminal records and those who entered Panama through the dangerous Darien Gap.

This initiative coincides with the inauguration of Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino, who has pledged to crack down on illegal crossings through the Darien Gap. Since the signing of the agreement, Panama has deported a total of 219 migrants in just two weeks.