In a case that has ignited international controversy, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a legally protected Maryland resident and father, was mistakenly deported to El Salvador’s notorious Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) due to an administrative error by the Trump administration. Despite court orders to facilitate his return, U.S. officials have yet to act, and El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele refuses to release him.Wikipedia+10People.com+10New York Magazine+10LBC+1The Guardian+1
Abrego Garcia, who fled gang violence in El Salvador and was granted protected status in the U.S. in 2019, was detained by ICE in March 2025. He was erroneously informed that his immigration status had changed and was subsequently deported without due process. The U.S. State Department has confirmed that he is “alive and secure” in CECOT, a facility known for its harsh conditions, including overcrowded cells, constant surveillance, and minimal living space. Democracy Now!+1People.com+1People.com
The deportation has drawn sharp criticism from legal authorities and human rights advocates. A U.S. district judge, supported by a Supreme Court order, has demanded the government facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return and provide daily updates on his condition. However, the administration argues that, since he is no longer in U.S. custody, it lacks jurisdiction to bring him back. New York Magazine+1TAG24+1Latest news & breaking headlines+7People.com+7New York Magazine+7The Guardian+3HuffPost+3Democracy Now!+3
Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador to meet with Abrego Garcia but was initially denied access. After eventually meeting him, Van Hollen shared images of their encounter, highlighting the dire situation. President Trump criticized the senator’s visit, calling it “disgusting,” and continues to assert unsubstantiated claims of gang affiliations against Abrego Garcia. The Guardian+3New York Magazine+3LBC+3Latest news & breaking headlines
This incident underscores the contentious immigration practices of the Trump administration and raises serious questions about due process and executive power. As legal battles continue, Abrego Garcia remains imprisoned in CECOT, separated from his family and facing uncertain prospects.
