“I lost $20,000”: Deported Uzbeks recount costly and dangerous attempts to enter the US illegally

In interviews with the Dunyo news agency, the returnees described arduous journeys through Mexico, often lasting up to a month and involving long stretches on foot through remote areas. Many said they were detained for extended periods in U.S. migration centers after being apprehended while trying to cross the border unlawfully.

One of the repatriated citizens said he decided to travel after hearing acquaintances boast about earning large sums of money in the United States. “People may tell you they are making good money and encourage you to come along. You should not believe them,” he said, warning that even after reaching Mexico, finding work and resolving documentation issues is extremely difficult. “This route is simply not worth it.”

According to several returnees, the cost of attempting to reach the United States illegally typically ranges from $23,000 to $30,000, with some individuals reportedly paying as much as $80,000. Despite these expenses, many never succeeded in entering the country and were eventually deported.

Another deportee said he lost $20,000 and spent three months in detention before being sent back. “I wasted $20,000, spent months behind bars, and was deported. I would never advise anyone to take this path,” he said, recalling harsh conditions in detention, including inadequate food.

Several returnees said they were relieved to be back home, noting that some migrants who enter the United States illegally face lengthy prison sentences.

Reportedly, the January 21 charter flight was organized following months of coordination between the relevant authorities of Uzbekistan and the United States. It marked the 11th such repatriation flight, bringing the total number of Uzbek citizens returned under this framework to nearly 700.