Families of Deported Venezuelans Protest US Actions in El Salvador

Venezuelan relatives protested U.S. deportations of over 200 migrants to El Salvador, claiming they were misled into thinking they were returning to Venezuela. Legal challenges ensue in Washington, while families demand the return of those they assert are innocent. The Venezuelan government categorizes the deportations as a kidnapping, taking steps for legal recourse.

On March 23, 2025, in Barquisimeto, Venezuela, relatives of Venezuelan migrants protested against U.S. deportations to El Salvador. These migrants were reportedly misled into believing they were heading to Venezuela before being sent to a Salvadoran prison. Over 200 individuals were deported to a maximum-security facility after former President Donald Trump used wartime powers to expel alleged gang members.

The situation has led to legal challenges in Washington, with a judge attempting to halt deportation flights. Concurrently, family members in Venezuela expressed outrage over the deportation, alleging that many of those sent to El Salvador were falsely accused of being criminals and some had been tricked into surrendering. Families demand accountability and assert the innocence of many deportees.

Gladys Coromoto Rojas, a grandmother of deportee Kenlyn Rodriguez, questioned how so many were deceived, stating, “How come so many people said they were coming to Venezuela and today they are in El Salvador? They were deceived.” The family of Maikel Rojas Olivera revealed his last communication indicated he was returning home only to discover he was sent to El Salvador instead.

Around 80 individuals, including relatives and neighbors of the deportees, joined the protest to demand the return of their loved ones. The Venezuelan government condemned the action as a kidnapping and has sought legal assistance to facilitate the migrants’ return.

The protest by Venezuelan relatives highlights significant concerns over the U.S. deportation policy, particularly regarding alleged misinformation and wrongful expulsion of individuals. Family members assert the innocence of many deportees, demanding justice and the safe return of their loved ones. The Venezuelan government’s response emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, labeling these deportations as unacceptable actions against their citizens.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net