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Panama Recaptures Escaped Deportee Amid Controversial Migrant Detention Policies

A woman who escaped from a detention hotel in Panama housing deportees has been recaptured, sparking criticism over conditions for migrants awaiting repatriation.

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Panamanian authorities have recaptured a woman who escaped from a hotel where she and nearly 300 deportees from the U.S. were being held. The escape and subsequent recapture have raised questions about the treatment of migrants, many of whom have expressed fears for their safety if returned to their home countries. The situation underscores the criticism faced by the Panamanian government regarding its role in U.S. deportation practices, as over 40% of the detained migrants have indicated they do not wish to return home. Security Minister Frank Abrego has stated that arrangements are being made for those unwilling to leave.

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The migrants, primarily from Asian countries, were being held in a hotel under police guard and were barred from leaving. Some held up notes from their windows expressing fears for their safety if returned to their home countries.

171 of the migrants have agreed to return to their countries of origin, according to Security Minister Frank Abrego.

The remaining migrants who do not wish to return will be sent to a temporary migration facility near the Darien Gap until it is clear where they will be sent.

Those who assisted the escaped migrant could face charges related to human trafficking or migrant smuggling.

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