October 17, 2017 IN: Immigration, National, Press Room
Over 100 Cambodian Americans Rounded Up for Deportation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2017
Contact:
Katrina Dizon Mariategue, Immigration Policy Manager
katrina@searac.org, 202-601-2968
U.S. Visa Sanctions Force Cambodia to Resume Repatriations
Washington, DC – Over 100 Cambodian Americans throughout the country have been rounded up and detained following the Cambodian government’s announcement that it plans to issue travel documents for 26 individuals whom the U.S. wants to deport. The round-ups come less than a month after the U.S. issued visa sanctions on Cambodia for refusing to comply with the repatriation of deportees. The Cambodian government cited humanitarian concerns about deporting refugees and breaking up American families as the reason for non-compliance. Community activists had also put pressure on Cambodian government to stop accepting the deportation of refugees, which temporarily halted removals during the summer.
Mavis Polyngam and her husband Narun, who faces deportation to Cambodia.
Most of the Cambodian Americans rounded up and detained are currently being held at the Adelanto Detention Facility near Los Angeles, CA. Others are now in the process of being transported from their home states to Adelanto, including from North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Wisconsin, Florida, Washington, and Minnesota. Interviews by the Cambodian consulate are expected to begin on October 23. It is unclear how many of these individuals will be deported to Cambodia, and whether the number will exceed the 26 announced by the Cambodian government.
- If you or someone you know is impacted by the recent rounds-ups, please consider filling out SEARAC’s advocacy intake form so we can help direct you to appropriate resources. Please consider sharing your story to shine a light on the devastating impact of deportation on families.
- Add your name to this sign on form to voice your support for the individuals and families who are currently facing deportation.
