Grupo Ortega Law Firm demands release of 238 Venezuelans detained in El Salvador’s CECOT, citing human rights violations. Habeas corpus filed before Supreme Court.

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The prominent Grupo Ortega Law Firm filed a habeas corpus petition on Tuesday before El Salvador’s Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ). The legal action seeks the immediate release of 238 Venezuelan migrants currently detained at the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT).

In an official statement, the firm argued that these detentions may violate fundamental rights including personal liberty, due process, and protection against cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. They emphasized these rights are protected under both El Salvador’s Constitution and international treaties ratified by the country.

Jaime Ortega, a partner at the firm, stated: “Our Legal Firm is committed to the unrestricted defense and respect of human rights and access to justice for all people, regardless of origin, race, creed, nationality, or immigration status.” He added that the Venezuelan migrants are in a vulnerable situation requiring urgent action.

The habeas corpus petition requests the Constitutional Chamber to order the immediate release of the detainees or, alternatively, to ensure a fair and transparent legal process. As a last resort, the firm demanded their prompt repatriation under dignified conditions.

Grupo Ortega also issued a public appeal to Salvadoran authorities to respect migrants’ human rights and comply with international obligations regarding refugee and asylum protections.

The CECOT, a maximum-security prison opened in 2023, has faced repeated criticism from human rights organizations. Concerns focus on detention conditions and mass arrests under El Salvador’s ongoing state of emergency. This case reignites debates over migrant treatment in the country.

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