People share fears

Concerns have erupted online after reports claimed that over 250 people have been deported from the U.S. to El Salvador’s notorious mega prison, CECOT, under Donald Trump’s second term. The facility, described as the “world’s worst prison,” holds up to 40,000 inmates, including gang members and mass murderers. One case gaining attention is Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland father deported by mistake despite a 2019 ruling protecting him from removal due to gang threats in his home country. Following Trump’s return to office in January 2025, he signed an executive order labeling immigration a national security threat, enabling mass deportations.

Satellite images of CECOT have gone viral, sparking fears and rumors online, including unverified claims of visible “blood” on the prison grounds. However, BBC journalist Shayan Sardarizadeh clarified the viral image is from March 2024—before Trump resumed office—and the dark patch could simply be mud or construction material. While the viral theories are unconfirmed, Sardarizadeh acknowledged that serious concerns remain about inmate treatment and lack of due process at the facility. The Salvadoran government has not yet responded to requests for comment.