Official statements or news reports from international governments

88 Brazilian Deportees Arrive in Manaus, Handcuffs Removed; First Trump Deportation Flight Sparks Diplomatic Tension

Jan 25, 2025, 09:15 PM

A flight carrying 88 Brazilian deportees from the United States, operated by Global Crossing Airlines, arrived in Manaus, Brazil, after experiencing technical difficulties with the aircraft's air conditioning. The deportees, part of a total of 158 passengers on the flight, were initially bound for Belo Horizonte but were detained in Manaus overnight. The Brazilian Federal Police provided them with food, water, mattresses, and access to showers. In a dramatic turn of events, some deportees climbed onto the wing of the aircraft to seek help. The Brazilian government, under President Lula, condemned the use of handcuffs on the deportees as a violation of their fundamental rights and ordered their immediate removal upon arrival in Brazil. The deportees were then transported to Belo Horizonte on a Brazilian Air Force plane. In response to the incident, the deportees sang the Brazilian national anthem, expressing relief and gratitude. The Brazilian Foreign Ministry plans to seek explanations from the U.S. government regarding the treatment of the deportees, who reported abuse during the flight. This flight was the first deportation flight under the new administration of President Donald Trump, although the deportees were detained under the previous administration of Joe Biden.