DAILY CALLER NEWS FOUNDATION—Panama’s government is touting progress on efforts to reduce illegal migration through the Darien Gap, a dense jungle region that long has served as a gateway point for South American migrants making their way to the United States.

The National Border Service, Panama’s version of the U.S. Border Patrol, reported that 11,363 migrants had crossed into the country from Colombia since July 1, when Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino first entered office, The Associated Press reported. That number marks roughly 9,000 fewer crossings compared to the same period last year.

Jorge Gobea, the National Border Service’s director general, credited the downturn in migration numbers to the construction of around three miles of barbed wire on five different trails frequently used by migrants passing through the Darien Gap, according to AP. Gobea also pointed to the Panama government’s declaration of deportation plans as well........

© The Daily Signal