LIBERIA is set to receive the first batch of 20 deportees from the United States tomorrow, Thursday, as part of an agreement under the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal migration.

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‎The first group is expected to arrive in the Liberian capital, Monrovia, as the West African country prepares to accept up to 1,200 people deported from the United States over a one-year period.

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‎Liberian Information Minister, Jerolinmek Piah, disclosed the arrangement to reporters in Monrovia on Tuesday, saying those to be transferred would include citizens or nationals of African and Western Hemisphere countries who are medically authorised to travel.

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‎The agreement is among several arrangements reached by the Trump administration with African countries to receive deportees from third countries, as Washington expands efforts to deter illegal migration.

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‎Under a series of often-secret agreements, the United States has deported thousands of people to countries other than their own, according to advocates.

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‎The arrangements have, however, raised concerns over the fate of migrants who have protection orders from United States immigration judges barring their return to their home countries because of safety concerns.

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‎Piah did not disclose whether any of those scheduled to arrive in Liberia are covered by such protection orders.

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‎He said the deportees may seek asylum in Liberia after their arrival or leave the country whenever they choose.

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‎Liberia is expected to receive support from the United States to manage the programme and strengthen its migration system, the minister added.