Fifteen migrants arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo after expulsion from the United States, marking a new phase in Washington’s immigration crackdown.
The group landed overnight in Kinshasa, becoming the first arrivals under a controversial agreement between US authorities and the central African nation.
A United Nations agency confirmed the transfer, while local sources said the migrants were originally from Peru and Ecuador.
Seven women and eight men disembarked shortly before midnight, stepping into an uncertain future far from their home countries.
Since returning to power, President Donald Trump has pursued similar deals, drawing criticism from rights groups over transparency and legality concerns.
Countries receiving deportees often disclose little about their status, and many migrants are not nationals of those host states.
The United States has previously sent deportees to several African nations, expanding a network of relocation agreements across the continent.
Congo requested assistance from the International Organization for Migration, which pledged humanitarian support and possible voluntary return options for migrants.
Officials indicated more arrivals could follow, with groups of around 50 expected monthly, though total numbers remain unclear.
Authorities in Kinshasa confirmed the migrants were admitted under short-stay permits, offering few details about their long-term prospects.
The arrangement is linked to broader cooperation, including US access to Congo’s mineral wealth and diplomatic efforts to ease regional conflict.
Yet the deal has stirred unease at home, with analysts criticising its opaque nature and questioning what benefits Congo receives in return.
Police guarded a suspected reception site near the capital’s airport, as residents expressed concern in a city already struggling with widespread poverty.
Human rights organisations warn such agreements may breach international law, casting a shadow over policies aimed at swift migrant removal.