Eswatini Assures Public: US-Deported “Barbaric” Criminals Pose No Threat

The Eswatini government has sought to calm growing public concern over the recent arrival of five convicted criminals from the United States, saying the men pose no threat to national security.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli confirmed that the individuals, described by U.S. authorities as so “uniquely barbaric” that their home countries refused to take them back, are now incarcerated in Eswatini’s correctional facilities. 

The group includes men from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen, all convicted of serious crimes including child rape, murder, and aggravated assault.

Mdluli emphasised that the men are being held in isolated high-security units within the country’s prison system and are under strict supervision.

“The nation is assured that these inmates pose no threat to the country or its citizens,” she said.

She added that their presence in Eswatini followed months of high-level negotiations between the U.S. and Eswatini, and that the arrangement includes support from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), which is helping coordinate their eventual repatriation to their countries of origin.

“The engagements considered every avenue, including rigorous risk assessments and careful consideration for the safety and security of citizens,” Mdluli added.

U.S. Embassy Also Weighs In

The U.S. Embassy in Mbabane confirmed the arrival of the deportees, stating they were transferred on July 16 and are now in the custody of Eswatini authorities.

READ MORE: U.S. Deportation Policy Sends Criminal Migrants to Eswatini Under New Third-Country Rule

Embassy Spokesperson Carly Van Orman stressed that the individuals do not pose any threat to public safety.

“The relevant authorities are ensuring the safety and well-being of these individuals in accordance with Eswatini’s sovereign laws and international norms and obligations,” she said.

Public Reaction: Scepticism, Anger and Unanswered Questions

Despite official reassurances, public reaction has been swift and critical.

On social media, many questioned the government’s decision to accept the deportees, particularly in light of recent funding cuts by the United States to Eswatini’s HIV/AIDS programs.

“How does a country that just pulled AIDS funding now expect us to host their criminals?” one user asked.

“Why didn’t they send them to South Africa or somewhere else? Why Eswatini?” another questioned.

The justification that the men are only “in transit” has also been met with doubt.

“Transit to where? Their home countries already refused them. What happens if they never leave?” one post read.

“What guarantees do we have that we won’t be stuck with them permanently?”

There are also concerns about cost and transparency. Some citizens want to know whether Eswatini taxpayers will footthe bill for the deportees’ stay, or if the U.S. will cover the expenses. Others expressed fear about the risks of escape or poor management of high-risk prisoners.

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“If we think we are equipped to handle such cases, we are sadly mistaken,” one resident posted.

“We deserve transparency. Our leaders owe us clear answers and a firm plan for our national security.”

Longstanding Ties Tested

Mdluli reminded the public that Eswatini and the U.S. have shared diplomatic relations for over five decades and that all agreements are made with careful attention to bilateral interests.

“As a responsible member of the global community, the Kingdom of Eswatini adheres to international agreements and diplomatic protocols regarding the repatriation of individuals, ensuring that due process and respect for human rights are followed,” she said.

But those statements have not quelled the growing unease. If anything, they have only intensified calls for further explanation.

With mounting questions about the deportees’ future, the terms of Eswatini’s agreement with the U.S., and the role of international organisations like the IOM, the public is demanding more than assurances; it wants answers.