Migrant fears deportation to El Salvador from U.S

A Venezuelan migrant named Jorge Reinaldo Molleda is currently in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody and fears being deported to El Salvador. His colleague, Karla Castaneda, reported that he was lured into ICE detention after receiving a call to sign documents. Molleda, 22, reported to the ICE office on February 20, believing it was a routine appointment. Instead, he learned that his immigration case was under "custody redetermination," which led to his detention in Tacoma, Washington. Castaneda criticized ICE for using tactics like "irregular check-ins" to detain asylum-seekers under false pretenses. Concerns have risen among immigrant communities about targeting, especially of young Venezuelans, according to Castaneda. She mentioned that deportations to a notorious prison in El Salvador, known for holding alleged gang members, have increased fears within these communities. Many deportees have been nonviolent migrants who had no gang affiliations, heightening worries about their treatment upon return. Molleda fled Venezuela due to violence and political instability, making his way through Colombia and Ecuador before reaching the U.S. He expressed gratitude for the support he receives while in detention and hopes to continue helping his family back home. Since arriving in the U.S., Molleda has been involved in community work and has participated in educational programs. His future remains uncertain as he fights to remain in the U.S., seeking safety and a better life.