JIND: Fifty-four youths from Haryana have been deported from the United States after attempting to enter the country illegally via the notorious ‘donkey route’. Most of these individuals, aged between 25 and 40, are from Karnal and Kaithal districts. They arrived at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Flight OAE-4767 and were subsequently handed over to their families by local police.

Naresh Kumar, one of the deported youths from Kaithal, shared his harrowing experience. He sold his agricultural land for Rs 57 lakh to pay an agent for the journey. Naresh recounted, "I was extorted at every border crossing, paying Rs 42 lakh initially, followed by Rs 6 lakh in Guatemala and another Rs 6 lakh in Mexico. Instead of reaching the US, I ended up in jail for 14 months before being deported." He urged others to avoid the ‘dunki’ route, highlighting the dangers and financial losses associated with such illegal journeys.

The police have confirmed that all deportees have been returned to their families. Upasana, the superintendent of police in Kaithal, stated that thorough checks are being conducted on the deportees, revealing that one individual had a criminal background. Jind SP Kuldeep Singh emphasized the serious nature of illegal immigration, warning that it not only jeopardizes lives but also tarnishes the community's image. He advised residents to pursue legal avenues for overseas travel.

In a related development, the Haryana Special Task Force (STF) arrested Lakhwinder Singh, a close associate of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who was also deported from the US. Singh has a significant criminal record and was involved in multiple extortion cases. His arrest follows a year-long effort by the STF to coordinate with international agencies for his deportation.

The US government's strict immigration policies have led to a rise in deportations, with many individuals facing serious consequences for illegal entry. Authorities continue to warn against the dangers of such routes, urging potential migrants to seek legal pathways for travel abroad.