Operación Flujo Controlado de Migrantes Irregulares en Panamá: Más de 178.000 personas cruzan la Selva del Darién en lo que va del año

Are you interested in learning about the challenges and dangers faced by migrants crossing the Darién Jungle in Panama? The Operation Controlled Flow of Irregular Migrants in Panama has recorded a staggering 178,043 individuals making the treacherous journey through the Darién Jungle in 2024. This operation was established to monitor the number of people and nationalities passing through Panama on their way to the United States.

Over the past 9 months, Panama has provided bus services for these migrants to safely reach the Costa Rican border, aiming to protect them from the risks associated with organized crime. The majority of individuals using this route are Venezuelans, Ecuadorians, Haitians, Colombians, and even Chinese nationals. The total number of migrants crossing the Darién Jungle has been steadily increasing, with an estimated 800,000 individuals expected to pass through this year.

The Panamanian government, along with non-governmental organizations, have expressed concerns about the overwhelming influx of migrants and the dangers they face in the jungle, especially during the rainy season. The government has also highlighted the need for resources to manage this flow and has discussed potential measures such as repatriation with the involvement of other countries.

In response to the escalating situation, the United States has announced plans to intensify efforts to combat migrant trafficking in the Darién Jungle. Specialized units have been mobilized to target criminal organizations operating in the area, with rewards of up to $8 million offered for information leading to the capture of key figures. This crackdown aims to dismantle criminal networks and enhance law enforcement in the region.

The Darién Jungle, spanning 266 kilometers between Colombia and Panama, has become a popular route for undocumented travelers seeking to reach the United States. Despite the risks and challenges, many individuals embark on this journey in pursuit of the “American dream.”

Stay tuned for updates on the evolving situation in the Darién Jungle and the efforts to address the complex issues surrounding migrant flows in the region. Source: MIGRACIÓN PANAMA / LA PRENSA DE PANAMÁ / DIARIO LAS AMÉRICAS.