On Wednesday, ten migrants drowned in a river in Panama’s Darien Gap near the Indigenous community of Carreto, according to the National Border Service (Senafront). The victims were reportedly swept away by the strong current while attempting to cross the treacherous region, which connects Colombia to Panama.
The drownings, believed to have occurred on July 16, were only recently reported due to the remote location of the incident. The National Border Service is investigating the case, including the victims’ nationalities. The Darien Gap, a mountainous and rainforest region, has seen a record number of migrant crossings in 2023, with over 500,000 individuals risking the journey through the hazardous terrain.
In response to the growing migration crisis, Panama’s new President, José Raúl Mulino, has introduced measures to control border crossings. Since early July, barbed wire has been placed across several routes in the Darien Gap to funnel migrants to a single authorized entry point at Cañas Blancas. This measure aims to enhance safety and manage the influx of migrants, many of whom are from Venezuela.
The Panamanian government has also signed an agreement with the United States to address illegal immigration through the Darien Gap. The agreement includes efforts to prevent transnational organized crime and human trafficking, which have been linked to unauthorized border crossings. Despite these measures, the region remains perilous, with periodic drownings highlighting the ongoing risks faced by migrants.
Authorities have warned migrants to avoid using unauthorized routes and to seek assistance at designated entry points. The deaths of the ten migrants underscore the dangerous conditions of the crossing and the challenges faced by both the Panamanian government and migrants in navigating the complex and hazardous terrain of the Darien Gap.
Migration and Security Measures:
Perspective 1:
The tragic drowning of ten migrants highlights the ongoing dangers faced by individuals crossing the Darien Gap. The incident is exacerbated by the current rainy season and the hazardous conditions of the crossing. The Panamanian government has implemented security measures, such as placing barbed wire to control migration routes, but these efforts have not fully mitigated the risks faced by migrants. (Source
Articles 1 and 2)
Perspective 2:
The increase in migrant deaths is partly attributed to transnational organized crime and local collaborators who exploit unauthorized paths through the Darien Gap. Panama’s new security measures, including the installation of barbed wire, aim to funnel migrants to safer, authorized entry points. This approach is part of broader efforts to manage illegal immigration and human trafficking. (Source
Articles 2)
Government Response:
Perspective 1:
The Panamanian government, under President José Raúl Mulino, has faced challenges in controlling migration through the Darien Gap. Despite efforts to block certain routes and direct migrants to a central receiving point, the region remains perilous for those attempting the crossing. (Source
Article 1)
Perspective 2:
The new government measures, including the installation of barbed wire and agreements with the U.S. to curb illegal immigration, are viewed as proactive steps to address the migration crisis and improve safety. These measures are part of a broader strategy to manage the influx of migrants and combat human trafficking. (Source
Article 2):
National Broadcasting Company:
10 migrants drown in rushing river crossing Darien Gap in Panama
Cable News Network:
10 migrants killed in floods crossing Darién Gap in Panama