US Deportation of Venezuelans to El Salvador's Cecot Prison Draws Global Outcry

Hundreds of Venezuelan migrants, some accused of gang ties without evidence, face harsh conditions in El Salvador’s controversial mega-prison under a $6 million US-El Salvador agreement.

• The US deported 261 individuals, including 137 Venezuelans accused of gang affiliation under the Alien Enemies Act, to El Salvador's Cecot prison despite limited evidence in many cases.
• The Cecot mega-prison, central to President Nayib Bukele’s anti-gang policies, has faced criticism for systemic human rights abuses, including torture, overcrowding, and deaths in custody.
• Human rights organizations have condemned the deportations, highlighting the unprecedented nature of sending migrants to a foreign prison known for harsh conditions and lack of transparency.
• The US paid El Salvador $6 million as part of the agreement, with deportees subjected to a communication blackout and denied access to family visits or outdoor recreation.
• Experts have raised concerns about the arbitrary use of tattoos to justify gang affiliations, reflecting broader issues with authoritarian practices in both US and Salvadoran policies.

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