Controversy Surrounds U.S. Third-Country Deportations: Case of Rabbiatu Kuyateh

Rabbiatu Kuyateh, a Sierra Leone native, was deported to Ghana despite court-ordered U.S. protection against deportation. Her case underscores controversial third-country removals by the U.S., sparking criticism over international law violations. The incident raises questions about the U.S.'s adherence to principles prohibiting 'refoulement', with lawmakers demanding clarity from involved governments.

Following her detention by U.S. immigration agents, Rabbiatu Kuyateh sought protection from deportation to Sierra Leone, citing fears of torture due to her father's political opposition ties. An immigration judge granted her request, but she was later deported to Ghana, where she was detained and forcibly returned to Sierra Leone.

The case has sparked a significant debate around U.S. President Donald Trump's policy of third-country removals, a strategy to expedite the deportation of undocumented immigrants. Kuyateh's story made headlines, highlighting the tensions between U.S. immigration practices and international law standards that prohibit refoulement.

Legal experts and human rights groups argue that third countries, like Ghana and Equatorial Guinea, cannot be considered safe if they fail to offer migrants the chance to contest deportations. The situation has prompted scrutiny of U.S. government actions, with calls for greater accountability and respect for due process.

(With inputs from agencies.)