Freed Venezuelans say El Salvador prison system abused migrants detained under Trump policy

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Full Story

Venezuelan migrants formerly detained in El Salvador’s mega-prison have spoken publicly about mistreatment following a release deal in July. The detainees were part of a group rounded up under the Trump administration and transferred through a three-country agreement.

Several of the freed men allege they endured both physical and psychological abuse while imprisoned. Their testimonies add to growing concerns about conditions inside El Salvador’s high-capacity detention facilities.

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The Context

The mega-prison in El Salvador was built to house tens of thousands of inmates and is among the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. It has been criticized for harsh conditions and limited legal protections.

In July, a three-nation agreement led to the release of 238 Venezuelans who had been detained after immigration enforcement actions by the U.S. government. Many were held without trial or due process.

Some of the men report they were denied adequate food, medical care, and access to legal assistance. Their claims have not been independently verified but align with previous human rights critiques of the prison.

U.S. immigration policy under President Trump emphasized strict enforcement and removals, often partnering with other countries for detention solutions. Critics argue such policies outsourced detention to places with lower human rights standards.

Supporters of the prison strategy argue it deters irregular migration and strengthens regional cooperation. Opponents warn it exposes vulnerable people to abuse and sidesteps due process protections.

The Biden administration has faced pressure to reevaluate international detention partnerships and prioritize humane treatment of migrants. Transparency and oversight remain key concerns for rights organizations.