First group of migrants 'voluntarily deported' from the US to their home countries

The first group of migrants has returned from the United States to Honduras and Colombia as part of the Trump administration's plan to 'voluntarily deport' undocumented immigrants at US expense. A total of 68 people, including children born in the US, were flown back to their countries of origin. 38 passengers disembarked in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, while others traveled to Colombia.

Each migrant received a prepaid card with $1,000 and the option to reapply for legal entry into the US. The deportations were a key campaign theme for President Trump, with recent TV ads showing migrants being sent to heavily guarded prisons in El Salvador to encourage 'self-deportations'. Homeland Security Secretary Noem called this the 'most cost-effective, best, and safest way to leave the US and avoid arrest'. The Honduran immigration director noted fewer departures this year compared to last.