Police search for woman who escaped Panama hotel where US deportees are held

Panamanian authorities are searching for Zheng Lijuan, a Chinese woman who escaped from a hotel in Panama City where she was being held after being deported from the US. Zheng was among 299 migrants from various countries who were flown to Panama as part of a US deportation initiative. Reports suggest she may have received assistance from locals while the deportees were being transferred to the Darién region, a dangerous area near the Colombian border. The Panamanian government plans to expand a migrant camp previously used for those crossing the Darién Gap. Following the election of President José Raúl Mulino, Panama has strengthened its cooperation with the US on immigration control, including increased border patrols and deportations. However, many migrants fear returning to their home countries due to potential persecution or death. The situation has drawn criticism, with some describing the conditions for deportees as akin to a concentration camp. Meanwhile, Costa Rica has agreed to accept 200 migrants from Central Asia and India, reflecting the regional impact of US immigration policies.

- Zheng Lijuan escaped from a hotel in Panama City where deported migrants are held.

- The Panamanian government is expanding a migrant camp in response to US deportation policies.

- Many deportees fear returning home due to threats of persecution or death.

- Panama has increased cooperation with the US on immigration control under President Mulino.

- Costa Rica has agreed to accept additional migrants, highlighting regional implications of US policies.