South Sudan has successfully repatriated a national from Mexico who was previously deported from the United States as part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy initiated by the former Trump administration. On September 6, 2025, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed that Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez, one of eight men deported from the US to South Sudan on July 5, has effectively been returned to Mexico following a conscientious diplomatic collaboration.
The South Sudanese government expressed appreciation for Mexico’s cooperation in this process, noting that assurances were provided regarding Munoz-Gutierrez’s humane treatment upon his return. The Ministry stated that he would not face any form of torture or inhumane treatment in Mexico, underscoring the importance of upholding human rights and the dignity of all individuals involved.
In a statement, officials indicated that the transfer of Munoz-Gutierrez to the custody of Mexican Ambassador Alejandro Estivill Castro was conducted smoothly and in accordance with international law. South Sudan emphasized that throughout his time in the capital, Juba, Munoz-Gutierrez was treated with respect, maintaining his human rights and fundamental dignity.
Munoz-Gutierrez expressed his concerns to journalists upon his return, describing feelings of being “kidnapped” following his deportation to South Sudan. He clarified that he had not intended to come to South Sudan, but acknowledged that he was treated well during his stay there. Previously, the US Department of Homeland Security had cited a conviction for second-degree murder among the reasons for his deportation.
Meanwhile, the South Sudanese government is in discussions regarding the fate of the remaining six deportees held in their custody. Advocacy groups have raised concerns about the legality and efficacy of the Trump administration’s deportation policies, which have faced significant criticism domestically and internationally. Although challenges continue in US courts regarding deportations to third countries, the Supreme Court had previously allowed the resumption of these practices.
The broader implications of such immigration policies extend to other African nations, including Uganda, Eswatini, and Rwanda, which have also received deportees as a result of US immigration enforcement strategies. These developments highlight complex international dynamics surrounding human rights and migration, with nations navigating the challenges of deportation while striving to uphold their commitments to human dignity.
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