U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has deported Edgar Batista Matos, a Dominican man wanted in his home country for human smuggling that led to the deaths of three minors. Matos, 36, was removed from the U.S. for the fifth time, departing Miami for Santo Domingo on Monday, where local authorities took him into custody.
ICE officials highlighted the deportation as an example of international law enforcement cooperation. Juan Lopez Vega, acting Field Office Director for ICE Miami, stated that the agency remains committed to identifying and removing fugitives wanted for serious crimes abroad.
Matos was initially deported in 2010 after being apprehended near Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. He was later removed in 2011, 2019, and 2023. His latest arrest occurred in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in September 2024, following a Dominican arrest warrant related to a deadly smuggling operation. He was transferred to Miami before his deportation.
ICE officials emphasized that prioritizing the removal of criminal fugitives enhances public safety. American authorities collaborated with the Dominican National Police to ensure Matos’ return, where he now faces justice for his alleged crimes.