The US has transferred hundreds of immigrants to a mega-prison in El Salvador under an agreement with the government, sparking concerns over human rights and the country’s harsh prison system. The facility, known as CECOT, was built by President Nayib Bukele’s administration as part of his anti-crime campaign.
CECOT has eight pavilions, can hold up to 40,000 inmates, and is notorious for its strict rules – prisoners have no visits, outdoor time, or educational programs. The prison’s justice minister claims those held at CECOT will never return to their communities.
Human rights organizations have accused El Salvador’s authorities of violating human rights, citing cases of abuse, torture, and lack of medical attention. At least 261 people have died in the country’s prisons since Bukele’s gang crackdown began.
The US transferred immigrants facing deportation under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which has been used only three times in history. The law requires a president to declare war, giving him extraordinary powers to detain or remove foreigners. However, there is no evidence that the deported migrants committed crimes in the US or are members of the Tren de Aragua gang.
Critics argue that the Trump administration’s policy prioritizes security over human rights, with little evidence provided for the deportations. The treatment of the immigrants has sparked international concern, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability from El Salvador’s authorities.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/el-salvador-trump-prison-immigrants-4ab3fc3c0474efb308084604b61f8a37