Venezuela’s leader has described the deportation of more than 200 migrants sent by the United States to a notorious mega-prison in El Salvador as a “kidnapping,” and denied they are criminals while backing calls for their return.

By Nelson Renteria, Brendan O'Boyle and Raul Cortes SAN SALVADOR (Reuters) -The U.S. has sent hundreds of mostly Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador to be held without trial in a controversial mega-prison known for its harsh conditions.

The White House has invoked the Alien Enemies Act and alleged that those who were removed were linked to a gang, a claim their families strongly reject.