Frank Ábrego, who was recently chosen to be Panama’s next public security minister, revealed the initial measures planned by the incoming government to address the issue of migrants crossing through the dangerous Darién Gap jungle trail bound for the U.S.
Closing the Darién Gap, a jungle trail shared by Panama and Colombia, was a key campaign promise of Panamanian President-Elect José Raúl Mulino, a conservative who will begin his five-year term on July 1.
Mulino introduced most of the individuals who will be part of his cabinet, including Ábrego, during a recent presentation. Ábrego mentioned that the new government has started diplomatic efforts and studies through international organizations to close the Darién Gap, which is a top priority for Mulino’s administration.
While Ábrego acknowledged that closing the Darién Gap is challenging, he emphasized that it is not impossible. The government plans to implement checkpoints to detain and deport migrants rather than building a border wall.
Official statistics from the Panamanian government showed a significant increase in the number of migrants crossing the Darién Gap in recent years, with a record-breaking number in 2023. Mulino reiterated his commitment to deport U.S-bound migrants crossing through the Darién Gap.
Ábrego, who previously served as the director of Panama’s Senafront national border service, played a role in banning an armed front of the FARC terrorist group during his tenure.
