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The detention centers of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the United States have surpassed their capacity, reaching 109 percent occupancy.
The saturation has forced authorities to release some migrants under monitoring programs within the U.S., according to the information published by the network Telemundo citing NBC News.
With approximately 40,000 beds available nationwide, the Administration of President Donald Trump began to utilize the Guantanamo base in Cuba to house up to 30,000 detainees.
On Tuesday, the White House announced the first flight transferring migrants to that facility, transporting 10 Venezuelans, including alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang.
Currently, ICE holds approximately 42,000 migrants in custody, despite having an official capacity of 38,521 beds in private prisons and county jails. More than half of those detained were arrested at the southern border, according to internal data from the Department of Homeland Security obtained by CBS News.
The increase in detentions, driven by immigration operations in cities like Chicago and New York, has put pressure on ICE, which is facing judicial restrictions that prohibit indefinite detention. This has led to the release of some individuals arrested in raids due to a lack of space to hold them until their deportation.
ICE publishes daily arrest figures on the social media platform X, but does not specify how many migrants remain detained or have been deported.
A spokesperson for the agency acknowledged that legal restrictions prevent prolonged detention if the countries of origin refuse to accept the return of their citizens, forcing ICE to release some migrants, Telemundo also noted.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation of ICE Detention Centers and the Transfer of Migrants to Guantánamo
Why are ICE detention centers overcrowded?
ICE detention centers are overcrowded due to a significant increase in immigrant detentions, exceeding the official capacity of available beds. This rise is attributed to intense raids and immigration operations in various cities across the United States, under the administration of President Donald Trump.
What measures is ICE taking in response to the overcrowding of its facilities?
In light of the overcrowding, ICE is releasing some migrants under monitoring programs within the United States and has begun transferring detainees to the Guantanamo Naval Base in Cuba. These measures aim to relieve the pressure on domestic detention centers.
Why is the decision made to transfer migrants to Guantánamo Naval Base?
The transfer of migrants to the Guantanamo Naval Base is being carried out to increase detention capacity and focus on irregular migrants accused of crimes. This action is part of President Trump's strategy to manage the migration crisis and strengthen border control.
What criteria are used to release certain migrants detained by ICE?
ICE releases certain migrants based on criteria such as health issues, family responsibilities, and the refusal of their home countries to accept them. Those released are monitored through the Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program, which uses technology to ensure their appearance at immigration hearings.
What are the criticisms of the policy of transferring migrants to Guantánamo?
The policy of relocating migrants to Guantánamo has generated criticism due to concerns about human rights and the history of violations at the base. Human rights organizations and the Cuban government have expressed their rejection, labeling the measure as inhumane and potentially harmful to regional stability.
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