Panamanian authorities confirmed Wednesday they recaptured a Chinese deportee who escaped a detention hotel amid mounting scrutiny of the Central American nation's role in U.S.-led immigration enforcement. The woman, part of a group of 299 migrants awaiting repatriation, was found near Panama's border with Costa Rica after reportedly receiving help from unidentified collaborators.
“This escape was orchestrated by human traffickers exploiting vulnerable people,” Security Minister Frank Ábrego declared on X, though officials didn't clarify whether she was apprehended in Panama or Costa Rica. The incident follows viral images of detained migrants holding signs like
“We are not safe”from hotel windows under police guard.
Key developments:
- 40% of deportees refuse voluntary repatriation
- 171 migrants agreed to return home with uncertain timelines
- Remaining detainees face transfer to Darien Gap facility
The controversy stems from Panama' controversial agreement to temporarily house migrants the Trump administration struggles to deport directly, primarily from Asian countries. Critics argue the hotel detentions violate human rights protocols despite government claims migrants are free to leave.
With border facilities strained and migrant routes through the Darien Gap surging, this case highlights growing tensions in hemispheric immigration strategies. Panama now faces dual pressures as both a transit hub and an extension of U.S. deportation policies.