U.S. Deportation of Venezuelans to El Salvador Draws Legal and Human Rights Scrutiny

Nearly 300 Venezuelans labeled as gang members are detained in a Salvadoran mega-prison, as families and advocates challenge the legality and morality of the expulsions.

The U.S. deported nearly 300 Venezuelans, including Mervin Yamarte, to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, citing alleged gang affiliations without clear evidence.
Deportations proceeded despite a U.S. federal judge's suspension of the order, raising concerns about due process violations.
Families in Venezuela identified their relatives in videos from El Salvador’s CECOT prison, asserting their innocence and demanding investigations.
Legal experts argue the expulsions lack sufficient proof of gang membership and question the use of a centuries-old wartime law for such actions.
Detained individuals face harsh conditions in CECOT, a maximum-security prison criticized for its inhumane treatment of inmates.