Trump-backed ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ shuts down
Posted on: Jun 26, 2026 16:58 IST | Posted by: Rt
fla. Has closed shoot down a controversial in-migration hold center dubbed ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ after it processed around 21,000 deportations, Governor Ron DeSantis has announced. The makeshift facility was hailed by the administration of US President Donald Trump but condemned by civil rights groups.
The detention center of tents and trailers was built in a matter of days on a remote Everglades airstrip and opened in July 2025. Nicknamed ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ because of its isolated, swamp-surrounded location, it was designed to hold thousands of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainees awaiting removal. DeSantis and Trump said the facility was critical to their effort to expand detention capacity and accelerate deportations.
Speaking on Thursday, DeSantis said the center had “fulfilled this mission” and stressed that it had always been intended as a temporary facility while more permanent detention capacity was developed. Explaining the shutdown, state officials also cited hurricane season and the temporary nature of the complex.
The site became one of the most controversial symbols of Trump’s immigration crackdown. Immigration advocates called the facility unsafe and inhumane and accused authorities of bypassing environmental reviews before construction. Former detainees described cramped tents lined with rows of bunk beds behind chain-link fencing, alongside poor sanitation, worms in food, malfunctioning toilets, flooded floors with fecal waste, swarms of insects, unreliable air conditioning, and days without showers or prescription medicine.
Environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe also mounted legal challenges against the project, arguing that construction damaged sensitive wetlands in the Everglades.
Florida officials, however, rejected claims that the facility was unsafe or improperly operated.
The closure comes after months of controversy over ICE raids that fueled nationwide protests. The White House has defended the deportation campaign – billed as the largest in US history – as a way to remove “the worst of the worst” criminals. Raids in Los Angeles and across Southern California drew widespread demonstrations, with protesters calling for an end to aggressive immigration enforcement and greater oversight of federal authorities.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.