

Deported—To a Country You've Never Been To
9 snips Jul 16, 2025
Jonathan Ryan, a San Antonio-based immigration attorney and author of Firewall Substack, sheds light on the harrowing story of his client, Nyo Myint, a refugee from Myanmar. Nyo's journey highlights the traumatic reality of being deported to countries like Djibouti and South Sudan—places he's never been. The discussion dives into the ethical issues of U.S. deportation policies, the risks faced by detainees, and the critical role of legal advocacy in navigating these challenges. Jonathan passionately advocates for the rights of those caught in this precarious system.
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Client's Sudden Transfer Anecdote
- Jonathan Ryan met with Nyo Myint and 13 others at the Pearsall Detention Center.
- Nyo Myint was transferred shortly after, signaling a sudden removal process to a third country.
Broad Law Enables Third-Country Removal
- U.S. immigration law allows removal to third countries if return to one's origin is impossible or inadvisable.
- This broad, vague regulation is now exploited for rapid deportations to unstable countries.
Harsh Detention in Djibouti
- Nyo Myint and others were sent to a U.S. military base in Djibouti and held in harsh conditions inside container units.
- Even guarding ICE officials reportedly fell ill from burn pits and mosquitoes there.