Court Issues Temporary Restraining Order
A federal court has stopped the Trump administration from transferring three Venezuelan immigrants to Guantánamo Bay. The court’s temporary restraining order prevents their removal from a detention facility in New Mexico. The case raises concerns about the administration’s immigration policies and legal access for detainees.
Lawyers Challenge Government’s Claims
The immigrants’ lawyers argue that the men were unfairly targeted. They claim the administration has prioritized Venezuelan men detained in the El Paso area. Authorities accuse them of links to the Tren de Aragua gang, but lawyers say those allegations are false. They filed a motion in a U.S. District Court in New Mexico to halt their transfer.
The filing states that uncertainty about legal access justifies the injunction. The court agreed, blocking the administration’s attempt to move the detainees.
Judge Grants Temporary Order
Judge Kenneth J. Gonzales issued the temporary restraining order during a brief hearing. Government officials opposed the decision, but the judge ruled in favor of the detainees’ legal representatives. Jessica Vosburgh, an attorney for the men, called the ruling a “short-term victory.” She expects further court proceedings in the coming weeks.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not commented on the case. U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement has also remained silent.
Immigrant Rights Groups Take Action
The Center for Constitutional Rights, the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico, and Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center are representing the detainees. These groups argue that sending immigrants to Guantánamo creates a “legal black hole.”
Immigrant rights organizations have also raised concerns about previous transfers. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that flights of detainees have landed at Guantánamo. Advocacy groups demand access to those already sent there.
Tren de Aragua and Venezuelan Migration
The Tren de Aragua gang emerged from a Venezuelan prison over a decade ago. The gang has expanded across Latin America, especially as millions of Venezuelans flee economic and political instability. U.S. authorities cite security concerns in justifying strict measures against Venezuelan migrants.
However, rights groups warn that broad accusations against Venezuelans can lead to wrongful detentions. They fear a lack of due process for those sent to Guantánamo.
Trump Administration’s Immigration Crackdown
Since his inauguration, President Trump has intensified immigration enforcement. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reported over 8,000 arrests in immigration sweeps. Trump has promised mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, estimated at 11.7 million in the U.S.
The administration argues that strong measures deter illegal immigration. Critics say these policies violate human rights and due process protections.
What Happens Next?
The court’s ruling temporarily halts the transfer, but the legal battle is far from over. Further hearings will determine whether the immigrants can remain in the U.S. or face deportation. Immigration advocates continue pressing for transparency and legal protections.
For now, the three Venezuelan men remain in the U.S., awaiting their next court date.
