By Sue-Ann Wayow

THE United States is sending back 21 Trinidad and Tobago nationals.

This was confirmed by the Ministry of Homeland Security on Saturday.

The ministry in a media release stated it acknowledged a formal request from the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency regarding the nationals currently in custody of US immigration authorities.

The 21 nationals are 17 males and four females.

The ministry stated ICE requested government’s assistance in facilitating the arrival of a charter flight to Port of Spain tentatively scheduled for May 23.

The flight is being coordinated to efficiently manage the repatriation process as the number of nationals currently pending removal has made a chartered mission more effective than multiple commercial flights the release stated.

The ministry stated, “The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is reviewing the manifest and itinerary provided and is currently in communication with ICE to ensure that all protocols, documentation and logistical requirements are met in accordance with local and international immigration standards.”

The Ministry of Homeland Security stated that together with the Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs  that it will continue to work closely with the US authorities to ensure the safe and “dignified return of all Trinidad and Tobago nationals.”

The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding international obligations while ensuring the integrity of the national immigration process.