The U.S. government has deported five so-called "criminal illegal aliens" to Eswatini, targeting individuals convicted of serious offenses. The move follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling allowing deportations to third countries. Eswatini's reaction remains uncertain, while broader implications for international deportation policies are emerging.
US Deports Five Convicted Criminals to Eswatini Amid Controversy
US Deports Five Convicted Criminals to Eswatini Amid Controversy
The United States has deported five individuals convicted of severe crimes to Eswatini, which raises questions about the treatment of deportees and the role of third countries.
The United States has recently deported five individuals described as "criminal illegal aliens" to the southern African nation of Eswatini. The deportees, according to U.S. Homeland Security Department Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, include men from various countries including Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen, who have committed serious crimes such as murder and child rape.
McLaughlin characterized these individuals as "barbaric" and "depraved monsters" who had caused fear in American communities, stating on social media that the flight successfully removed these offenders from American soil. Earlier this month, the U.S. also deported eight migrants to South Sudan after a legal ruling allowed removals to countries even where individuals had no existing ties.
Eswatini, the last absolute monarchy in Africa, has not publicly commented on the deported individuals. However, it has been identified as a potential destination for other deportees from the U.S. The country has been ruled by King Mswati III since 1986 and is landlocked by South Africa and Mozambique.
Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision has enabled broader deportation practices, allowing for removal to countries other than the migrants' nations of origin. Potential future deportation recipients named in media include countries such as Rwanda, Benin, Angola, and Moldova.
Historically, the Trump administration has pursued aggressive deportation policies, facing some resistance from countries unwilling to accept their citizens. For instance, Nigeria stated it would not accept Venezuelan deportees, reflecting pushback against U.S. demands.
The shift in deportation strategy from the Trump administration has not only targeted undocumented immigrants, but also those with various visa statuses, raising concerns about international relations and the treatment of deportees. The implications of these policies continue to unfold, highlighting the complexities of migration and deportation on a global scale.
