The United States has deported over 250 suspected gang members to El Salvador, disregarding a federal judge’s order to halt the flights. Former President Donald Trump used the Alien Enemies Act, a law from 1798, to justify the deportations, sparking controversy over its legality.
Gang Members Deported to El Salvador
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele confirmed that 238 members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang and 23 members of MS-13 had arrived in his country. These individuals will be held in El Salvador’s massive 40,000-capacity “terrorism confinement center.” This facility, known for its harsh conditions, is a key part of Bukele’s anti-gang crackdown.
The deportation agreement between the US and El Salvador raises questions about international cooperation on crime. While the US considers these deportees a threat, El Salvador has agreed to take them in, promising strict detention.
Judge’s Ruling Fails to Stop Flights
On Saturday, US District Judge James Boasberg ruled against the deportations. He stated that the Alien Enemies Act could not be used in this manner and ordered ongoing flights to return. However, by the time the ruling was issued, the deportees had already landed in El Salvador.
Bukele responded on social media with the message, “Oopsie … Too late,” along with a laughing emoji. His response highlighted his strong support for the deportation agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also backed the move. He thanked Bukele for his cooperation and praised El Salvador’s prison system as a cost-effective solution for American taxpayers. Rubio stated that housing gang members in El Salvador instead of US prisons would save millions of dollars annually.
Legal and Human Rights Concerns
Trump defended the deportations by labeling Tren de Aragua a “foreign terrorist organization.” He argued that its members were engaged in “irregular warfare” in the U.S. This marks the first time the Alien Enemies Act has been applied to criminal organizations rather than enemy states.
However, legal experts have raised concerns. US Attorney General Pam Bondi supported Trump’s move, saying it was necessary for public safety. Meanwhile, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has challenged the deportations, arguing that the law was designed for wartime enemies, not criminal groups.
Another major issue is the lack of due process. Human rights activists point out that the US has not presented clear evidence linking each deportee to criminal activity. Deporting individuals without proper trials raises concerns about human rights violations and wrongful removals.
Harsh Conditions in El Salvador’s Mega-Prison
El Salvador’s prison system, particularly the Cecot mega-prison, has been criticized for its extreme conditions. Since 2022, the prison has held thousands of alleged gang members. Detainees sleep on steel frames without mattresses, receive identical meals without utensils, and have no access to proper sanitation. The facility keeps lights on 24/7 and uses open toilets, creating an inhumane environment.
While some see this as an effective way to combat crime, others see it as a human rights abuse. Reports indicate that over 100 inmates have died due to poor conditions and lack of medical care. Despite this, Bukele remains firm in his anti-gang approach, stating that his policies have significantly reduced crime in El Salvador.
Political Reactions and Future Implications
The deportations have deepened political divisions in the US. Trump’s allies argue that removing gang members improves national security. They claim that MS-13 and Tren de Aragua have been responsible for violent crimes across the country.
However, critics say the move bypasses legal norms. They warn that using the Alien Enemies Act in this way sets a dangerous precedent. If a future president follows Trump’s example, it could lead to further deportations without proper legal review.
Meanwhile, the US and El Salvador have not disclosed the full details of their agreement. Questions remain about whether Bukele will accept more deportees in the future and how El Salvador will handle the influx of prisoners.
As the legal battle continues, human rights groups and immigration advocates are demanding transparency. They argue that mass deportations should not happen without fair trials and evidence-based assessments.
The situation highlights the complex relationship between immigration enforcement and human rights. While the US aims to reduce gang violence, it must also balance national security with legal and ethical concerns.