ECNETNews, Kingston, Jamaica, January 31, 2025: Approximately 50 Jamaican nationals have returned to their homeland on the first deportation flight from the United States since the Trump administration’s initiation on January 20th.
Jamaica’s Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith confirmed that the flight successfully landed at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. She emphasized that this is part of the routine monthly immigration arrangements between Jamaica and the United States, noting that deportation flights for Jamaicans typically occur on the last Thursday of each month.
In light of reports indicating that 5,120 Jamaicans are targeted for removal in operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Johnson Smith acknowledged the growing concerns among Jamaicans both domestically and abroad regarding the stricter enforcement of U.S. immigration policies.
“Concerns have been exacerbated by misinformation circulating on social media, including exaggerated claims that suggest tens of thousands of Jamaicans are to be deported immediately. These statements are categorically false,” stated the foreign minister.
She further explained that while enhanced immigration enforcement measures are likely to lead to a higher number of Jamaican repatriations, a series of processes are involved. The Government of Jamaica is closely monitoring the situation and is in active dialogue with U.S. authorities.
“Jamaica, like many nations, has international obligations to accept the return of our citizens facing deportation. As a responsible member of the international community, we have consistently honored these obligations with due regard for human rights and due process, as do other countries with foreign nationals who breach their laws in Jamaica,” Johnson Smith added.
She also highlighted that those subject to deportation may belong to various categories—some convicted of serious crimes, including violent offenses, while others may have merely violated immigration laws yet have been productive members of society.
From a citizen security perspective, the Government is particularly aware of the potential implications of the increased repatriation of individuals with serious criminal records.
“The National Security Council is rigorously evaluating associated risks and is actively formulating strategies to mitigate any potential threats to public safety,” Johnson Smith stated, reaffirming that the security of all Jamaicans remains the utmost priority for the Government.
