A Venezuelan makeup artist who was deported to El Salvador after being sent back from the US has been granted asylum in Spain. Andry José Hernández Romero was one of the individuals sent to El Salvador's notorious Cecot prison, which has been marred by reports of violence and human rights abuses.
Romero's ordeal began when he was deported from the US to El Salvador under the Trump administration's 'Remain in Mexico' policy. He was later allowed to return to Venezuela but has now sought asylum in Spain, citing concerns for his safety in his home country.
In an interview, Romero described his experience in Cecot prison as 'horrific' and claimed to have faced violence and intimidation from prison guards and other inmates. He also alleged that he was forced to pay bribes to prison officials to avoid being mistreated.
Romero's decision to seek asylum in Spain is a significant development, given the country's more tolerant immigration policies compared to those in the US and El Salvador. Spain has a long history of providing refuge to migrants and asylum seekers, and Romero's case highlights the complexities of immigration policy in the region.
The Spanish government has not commented on Romero's asylum application, but human rights organisations have welcomed his decision to seek refuge in the country. Romero's story serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by migrants and asylum seekers around the world, and the importance of providing safe and secure refuge to those in need.