Story perspectives

Zapata's Congo Deportation Sparks Outcry Over Inhumanity

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) transferred Zapata and fourteen detainees to Democratic Republic of Congo on April 16.
Mexico refused to accept Zapata after ICE tried to send her there because a court barred her return to Colombia.
Zapata’s prediabetes progressed to diabetes in detention, leaving her without required medication.
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-N.J.) condemned the deportation as inhumane, accusing the U.S. President Donald Trump administration of abandoning protected individuals.

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Story summary

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) transferred Zapata and fourteen detainees to Democratic Republic of Congo on April 16.
Mexico refused to accept Zapata after ICE tried to send her there because a court barred her return to Colombia.
Zapata’s prediabetes progressed to diabetes in detention, leaving her without required medication.
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-N.J.) condemned the deportation as inhumane, accusing the U.S. President Donald Trump administration of abandoning protected individuals.