PANAMA CITY (Reuters) – Panama has implemented new measures to address the increasing number of migrant crossings through the Darien Gap jungle region, which connects the country with Colombia. These crossings have reached a record high this year.
In a press conference, immigration officials announced that they will intensify deportations of individuals with criminal records and reduce the allowable duration of stay for some tourists from 90 days to 15 days.
Samira Gozaine, the chief of Panama’s immigration institute, stated that deportation flights for irregular migrants with criminal records will double with the assistance of the country’s security ministry.
According to official data, approximately 352,000 individuals have crossed this perilous region by September 8th, surpassing last year’s record of nearly 250,000 crossings for the entire year.
In addition, Panama will raise the financial requirements at its checkpoints. Those intending to stay for 90 days will now be required to show proof of funds amounting to at least $1,000 instead of the previous requirement of $500.
The United Nations predicts that the number of crossings through the jungle will exceed 400,000 by the end of this year.
(Reporting by Elida Moreno; Editing by Sarah Morland)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
