PANAMA CITY, Sept 9, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - Panama said Friday it would step up expulsions of US-bound migrants who enter its territory illegally through the perilous Darien jungle on the border with Colombia.

The country's national director for migration Samira Gozaine told reporters steps would be taken to "progressively" increase the number of migrants deported or expelled, while boosting security measures in border towns.

Since the beginning of 2023, more than 348,000 migrants, mainly Venezuelans, have undertaken the dangerous crossing through the Darien jungle -- far more than the record of 248,000 registered for the whole of 2022.

Last month, between 2,500 and 3,000 migrants per day entered Panama from Colombia on average, compelling the authorities to set up reception centers with the aid of international agencies.

Since April, the Panamanian authorities have expelled nearly 500 people, said Gozaine, adding the government intends to make use of chartered flights to increase that number.

"Obviously we have limited resources. If 3,000 people enter, we would like to expel 3,000 but it's impossible," the official added.

Thousands of migrants arriving via Colombia risk their lives every year beating a path through the thick, swampy Darien, a roadless jungle area replete with wild animals, dangerous rivers and criminal gangs.

Last year, at least 52 people died in the jungle, according to authorities.