55 Migrants Die in Jungle Journey to the U.S.; 20 Swept Away by River

Khabarmala Report,

A report states that 55 migrants attempting to travel to the U.S. through a lower route via Colombia died while crossing the Darien Jungle. Panama’s President, José Raúl Molino, revealed that the bodies of 55 migrants were found, and 180 children were abandoned during the journey. Currently, childcare organizations are looking after them. In his weekly press conference, President Molino disclosed that 55 deaths were recorded in the Darien Gap in 2024. Among the deceased were 10 who drowned while trying to cross rivers during the rainy season.

Despite risks such as fast-flowing rivers, wild animals, and criminal gangs, the Darien Gap remains a key route for Venezuelans and other migrants traveling through South America, Central America, and Mexico to reach the U.S. The exact nationalities of the deceased remain unknown. Panamanian authorities stated that due to the jungle’s remote areas, many bodies remain unrecovered, and the death toll could rise.

So far this year, 300,000 migrants have crossed the Darien Jungle, a 41% decrease compared to 2023, when 520,000 people undertook the perilous journey, according to Panamanian government statistics.

Migrants Cross Rivers Using Makeshift Boats

According to international news agency The Guardian, some children are traveling alone after losing family members or being separated from them during the journey. Others were abandoned. Under U.S. pressure, Panama and Mexico have adopted stricter measures to address migration issues, resulting in reduced movement in the area. The Panamanian government has closed several routes in the Darien region and, with U.S. financial assistance, started deporting migrants via chartered flights, leading to a decline in crossings.

The Darien Gap is a treacherous 60-mile stretch. Each year, nearly half a million people attempt this dangerous journey to reach the U.S., putting indigenous groups in the region at risk. Approximately 1,400 Emberá indigenous people live in the area.

Migrants traveling through the jungle face threats from harsh weather, armed robbers, exploitation, and sexual abuse. Despite President José Raúl Molino’s pledge in July to return all migrants via air travel, the government has yet to effectively address the crisis.