The first group of migrants deported from the United States has arrived in Kinshasa, marking the initial implementation of a recent deportation agreement with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
According to the Reuters, the deportees reportedly from Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador , landed in the Congolese capital in the early hours of Friday after a journey lasting over 24 hours. Estimates suggest the group consisted of around 15 to 16 individuals.
The transfer follows a bilateral agreement announced earlier in April, allowing the U.S. to deport so-called third-country nationals to Congo. However, the exact number of individuals expected to be relocated under the arrangement remains unclear.
Legal representatives indicated that last-minute court interventions in the United States may have reduced the number of deportees on the flight, with some removals reportedly halted by federal judges.
Upon arrival, the migrants were granted temporary visas valid for seven days, with the possibility of extension. They were also informed of the option to apply for asylum, though concerns were reportedly raised about security conditions within the country.
The development comes as Congo continues to grapple with internal instability and displacement challenges, particularly in its eastern regions. It also coincides with broader U.S. efforts to strengthen ties with the country, including peace initiatives and access to critical mineral resources.
The situation is expected to draw further scrutiny as additional deportations under the agreement unfold.
