The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported this weekend on the arrest of a Cuban citizen identified as Joan Gil, who had been subject to a deportation order since 2014. However, what has sparked more reactions is not just the arrest, but the threatening tone of the message accompanying the official announcement.
“Self-deport before we find you — and we WILL find you”, wrote ICE on its official account on the social network X, after reporting that the Cuban was apprehended by its office in Phoenix, Arizona.
According to ICE, Joan Gil had been convicted of transporting methamphetamine for sale, which is why an expulsion order was issued against him more than a decade ago. “We will ensure that he is deported as soon as possible”, states the statement.
So far, no additional information has been provided regarding the true identity of the arrested person. The name "Joan Gil" could belong to either a man or a woman, which adds to the confusion, especially since the shared image is of a woman. The lack of clarity has raised suspicions about the possible undue exposure of someone who may not even be connected to the case.
This case is part of a broader and more complex reality. According to recent figures from ICE itself, more than 42,000 Cubans in the United States have final orders of deportation, but they have not been expelled from the country, largely because the Cuban regime refuses to accept them.
Cuba is listed among the official "recalcitrant" countries—alongside Iran, China, Russia, and Venezuela—due to its refusal to cooperate with the repatriation of its citizens, which forces the U.S. to seek "alternative solutions," as has recently occurred with deportations to South Sudan, a country facing a humanitarian crisis.
Despite the lack of cooperation from Havana, so far in 2025, Cuba has received 20 flights with 676 repatriated individuals, including minors and people on probation.
On June 18, 89 Cubans were deported to the island. In some cases, those returned have been handed over directly to the criminal investigation bodies of the Cuban Ministry of the Interior (MININT).
Frequently Asked Questions about Deportations of Cubans by ICE
Why was Joan Gil arrested by ICE?
Joan Gil was arrested by ICE due to a deportation order issued in 2014 and for his conviction for transporting methamphetamine for sale. This case exemplifies the current immigration policy that prioritizes the deportation of individuals with criminal records.
What is the position of ICE on self-deportation?
ICE has adopted a threatening tone in its message to immigrants with deportation orders, urging self-deportation before they are discovered. This approach is part of a broader policy to intensify deportations under the current administration.
How does the stance of the Cuban regime affect deportations from the U.S.?
The Cuban regime refuses to accept many of its deported citizens, complicating the execution of deportations from the U.S. and forcing the search for alternative solutions, such as deportations to third countries. Cuba is on the list of "recalcitrant" countries due to this lack of cooperation.
How many Cubans have been deported so far in 2025?
In 2025 so far, Cuba has received 20 flights with 676 repatriated individuals, including minors and people on probation. However, the number of Cubans with deportation orders in the U.S. is much higher, due to Cuba's reluctance to accept its deported citizens.
What does having an I-220A form mean for Cubans in the U.S.?
The I-220A form does not guarantee protection against deportation. Although there is confusion about its implications, it is important for Cubans with this form to keep their contact information updated and closely monitor their legal situation, as they could face deportation proceedings if they fail to attend reopened hearings.
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