Some 2, 310 Jamaicans have been refused entry into Mexico and Panama between 2018 and March 31, this year.

Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson Smith made the revelation at a Post-Cabinet press briefing this morning (April 12) as she cited data from the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA).

The disclosure follows reports that Jamaicans have been illegally migrating to the United States through countries, such as Mexico, Belize and Panama.

Mrs. Johnson Smith said that based on data provided by PICA, over 2,000 Jamaicans were refused entry into Panama during the period.

She added that while Belize has given the Ministry data, the figures have not been validated by PICA.

They will be revealed at a later date.

Mrs Johnson Smith noted that illegal migration not only poses a danger to persons who engage in the practice but also impacts the strength of Jamaica’s passport.