Panama is abetting the U.S. in returning deported immigrants to their countries of origin. Amid tensions over the current régime’s threat to take over the Panama Canal, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino offered to strengthen cooperation with the U.S. in the deportation of migrants. Both countries have had an agreement since last July to return those who have crossed the dangerous Darien jungle on flights paid for by the U.S. The treacherous hike through the Darien Gap brings people from Colombia to Panama and is a crucial passage for those hoping to reach the United States and Canada.

On February 13, 119 immigrants arrived in Panama on a flight from the U.S. Two more such flights are expected to arrive, amounting to a total of 360 people. They are to be housed in a hotel and then a shelter as they await their flights from Panama to their various countries of origin.

(Taken from an email sent to me by Never Again Action.)