Jamaicans warned against engaging in illegal migration

Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica's minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade, cautions Jamaicans against migrating abroad illegally as it puts them in danger of kidnapping, human trafficking, and even death.

Johnson Smith was speaking during a post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House on Wednesday

A “relatively small number” of Jamaicans, according to Johnson Smith, are attempting illegal migration by passing through Mexico, Panama, and Belize.

According to information from Mexico and Panama that was verified by the Passport, Immigration, and Citizenship Agency (PICA), 143 Jamaicans were refused entry to Mexico between 2018 and March 31 this year.

“In the case of Panama, for the same period, 2,167 Jamaicans were refused entry and 81 Jamaicans were deported,” the minister said.

Since there are no direct flights from Jamaica to Mexico, Johnson Smith said it is unclear whether the data from Panama include those who tried to travel through the country.

Reports are that data from Belize are still awaiting validation from PICA.

Despite the Government’s efforts to strengthen security to better support citizens who want to enjoy their right to freedom of movement, she said that unauthorized entry harms the reputation of the Jamaican passport.

Kamina Johnson Smith further shared that the Government will continue to work with its partners in Belize, Mexico, and Panama on the matter.