Nearly 300 migrants from various countries, mostly Asian, are being held in a hotel in Panama City while waiting for international authorities to organize their return to their countries of origin. The U.S. government has arranged for Panama to serve as a “bridge” country for deportees, but human rights concerns have been raised over the treatment of those who do not wish to leave.
The migrants, who hail from countries including Iran, India, and Nepal, are being detained despite the fact that they cannot leave the hotel due to police presence. Some have expressed desperation by writing messages on their windows, pleading for help. Panama’s Security Minister has downplayed the situation, but critics argue that those who do not agree to return may be held in a remote facility.
According to authorities, 171 of the deportees have agreed to return voluntarily with assistance from international organizations. However, concerns remain over the treatment and potential destination of the remaining migrants.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/panama-trump-migrants-darien-d841c33a215c172b8f99d0aeb43b0455