Ten found dead in Darien Gap as wet season increases migration risks

Ten found dead in Darien Gap as wet season increases migration risks

Ten migrants were found dead after drowning in an attempt to cross the perilous Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia, Panamanian border police said on Wednesday.

The bodies were found in riverside tributaries near the Carreto community, the National Border Service (Senafront) said.

It did not say when they were discovered or provide any further details.

Authorities say migrants passing through the Darien are mostly trying to reach the United States, exposing themselves to organized crime and the dangers of the jungle. The risk increases during the rainy season due to rising river levels.

Increased migration has led Panama to bolster border security and seek international assistance.

Last year, a record half a million migrants crossed the Darien Gap, seeking safety and improved economic prospects.

In 2024, over 200,000 migrants have traversed the jungle.