US deportations to South Sudan defy court order, a federal judge ruled Wednesday, intensifying a legal standoff between the judiciary and federal agencies. Judge Brian Murphy stated that the removal of eight migrants violated his April order requiring due process.
The judge had previously instructed authorities to keep the migrants in custody. He stressed that they must be allowed to challenge their removal to third countries. However, officials proceeded with deportation, triggering immediate legal backlash.
At a tense court hearing, Judge Murphy said the government clearly breached his instructions. He questioned whether the migrants were given a fair chance to respond. “There is no way they had a meaningful opportunity to object,” he declared.
The Department of Homeland Security defended its actions. Officials claimed the deported men were dangerous criminals, including individuals convicted of murder and rape. One official described them as “uniquely barbaric monsters.”
Despite these justifications, the judge remained firm. He emphasized that all individuals deserve the right to contest their deportation, regardless of their past. The government, he said, failed to comply with this principle.
Authorities refused to disclose where the deportees were sent, citing security concerns. However, advocates believe one man was sent to South Sudan, despite not being a citizen of that country.
Among the deported is Nyo Myint, a citizen of Myanmar. His attorney said he received conflicting notices within hours, first naming South Africa, then South Sudan. Both were in English, a language Myint barely understands.
Lawyers accused the government of misleading practices. They said this case highlights a disturbing pattern of ignoring judicial authority. “He’s disappeared by the US government,” Myint’s attorney said.
Judge Murphy stopped short of ordering the return of the deportees. However, he signaled that he may hold officials in contempt of court. A final ruling is expected soon.
Meanwhile, US deportations to South Sudan defy court order continues to fuel broader controversy. The Trump administration is expanding deportation partnerships with countries like El Salvador, Rwanda, and Benin.
In April, Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked visas for South Sudanese citizens. The move came after the African nation refused to accept deported nationals. This visa policy aligns with the administration’s tough immigration stance.
Immigration lawyers warn that constitutional protections are at risk. They argue that ignoring due process sets a dangerous precedent. “We’re allowing the government to decide who deserves rights,” said one attorney.
As the legal fight unfolds, US deportations to South Sudan defy court order remains a flashpoint.
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