Kingston – The government of Jamaica is working to secure the early return of a Jamaican national, Isaac Etoria, who was deported to Eswatini by the United States in July.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Kamina Johnson Smith confirmed that support is being provided to Etoria while efforts continue to have him repatriated.
Jamaica and Eswatini have been in discussions following reports that Etoria, along with four other men, had been deported to the southern African nation. At the time, Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin described the five as “individuals so uniquely barbaric that their home countries refused to take them back,” citing Etoria’s convictions for murder, robbery, and illegal possession of a weapon. The Jamaican foreign ministry has disputed claims that the country refused to accept him.
Johnson Smith provided an update on Friday, noting that a consular team from Jamaica’s High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa, together with the Honorary Consul in Eswatini, visited Etoria on Thursday, August 21. The minister said the team found him “in good spirits” and confirmed that he has been receiving regular medical attention. Arrangements are also being made to connect him with his family and address his needs while in Eswatini.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to engage with Etoria’s family through its embassy in Washington, D.C., as efforts toward his repatriation progress.
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