Costa Rica to accept Indians, Central Asians deported by US
What's the story
Costa Rica has agreed to take in illegal migrants deported by the United States.
The first flight carrying 200 people from Central Asia and India is set to arrive on Wednesday.
Costa Rica becomes the third Central American country, after Panama and Guatemala, to partner with the US in this regard.
The migrants will stay in Costa Rica until they can be sent back to their countries.
Transit point
Costa Rica's role in US deportation initiative
The Costa Rican president's office confirmed the collaboration in a statement on Monday.
It clarified that these individuals are "originating from countries in Central Asia and India," and that "Costa Rica will serve as a bridge for them to reach their countries of origin."
The deported individuals will arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport and be transferred to Catem in Corredores canton—all funded by the US government.
Deportation details
US deportation process and public reaction
Since February 5, the US has deported 332 Indians on three military flights. The first flight returned 104 people, with plans to send back nearly 600 illegal migrants to India.
After public outcry over images of restrained men on the first flight, subsequent flights have avoided media attention by arriving at night or early morning, people familiar with the matter told news channels.
They also said that women and children on later flights weren't restrained during their journey.