A Colombian transgender man, known as 'Bicho', has been detained at the Aeroparque airport in Buenos Aires since January 21. He is at imminent risk of being forcibly deported to Brazil, despite having formally applied for asylum.
On Wednesday morning, after arriving from Brazil, he was denied entry as a 'false tourist'. In a state of nervous breakdown and crying, he was forced to sign a document without receiving medical attention. Later, he was allowed to access his medication, but after a second panic attack, he could not be deported on the same day.
Despite having applied for asylum, migration authorities are threatening to deport him. His phone has been confiscated, leaving him without communication. Supporters state that any attempt at deportation constitutes a serious violation of human rights, as his appeal against the asylum refusal has not yet been ruled upon by a court.
Family and activists are calling for the immediate release of 'Bicho', ensuring his access to a mental health professional and an end to the harassment. They hold the involved authorities responsible for his life and well-being and are calling on international human rights organizations to intervene in the situation.
