More Than 100 Migrants Deported from US to Panama Refuse Repatriation
Of the 299 migrants deported from the US to Panama, 103 have refused repatriation, primarily coming from Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, and India. Migrants are currently housed in San Vicente and are seeking assistance due to safety concerns. The International Organization for Migration will facilitate their relocation, amidst a notable decrease in migration trends in the region.
According to Panama’s security minister, Frank Abrego, among 299 migrants deported from the United States to Panama, 103 individuals, primarily of Asian nationalities, have declined to return to their home countries. Currently, 101 migrants have successfully repatriated, while 12 are expected to depart soon, and an additional 30 are scheduled to be transferred in the coming days.
The undocumented migrants, originating from Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, and India, are residing in a hostel located in San Vicente, Darien province. Visual demonstrations of their plight included signs stating, “Please help us” and “We are not safe in our country.” The International Organization for Migration will assist in relocating these individuals to other nations.
The situation has highlighted a reversal in migration patterns post-implementation of stricter US immigration policies. In the past, individuals sought better opportunities in the United States, while now many are returning to their home countries. Data from Panamanian authorities revealed that only 2,607 migrants have entered the Darién jungle in 2025, marking a 96% decrease compared to the 66,303 migrants recorded at the same time last year.
Furthermore, Necoclí, a coastal town in western Colombia, has witnessed a drastic drop in migrant arrivals, now receiving approximately 60 individuals daily instead of the 1,000 migrants per day during the peak phases of the humanitarian crisis.
In summary, a significant number of migrants deported from the United States to Panama are refusing repatriation, citing safety concerns in their home countries. The International Organization for Migration is prepared to assist in their relocation, as patterns of migration continue to shift due to changing policies and global circumstances.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr