The Mexican government hardens its stance towards the United States. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) instructed the Attorney General’s Office to file criminal complaints against those responsible for the deaths of Mexicans during immigration operations and in the custody of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE). In addition, it will promote civil actions against companies that manage detention centers.
Mexico’s legal actions
Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco explained that the complaints will be directed to state prosecutors and the United States Department of Justice. The objective is to carry out criminal investigations into the deaths that Mexico considers still unclarified. This decision marks a shift in Mexican strategy, which previously privileged diplomatic efforts.
Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration had sent 11 letters of diplomatic protest. In them he requested investigations into 17 deceased Mexicans: 14 in immigration detention centers and three during capture operations. Without obtaining answers considered satisfactory, Mexico raised the claim to judicial authorities.
One of the emblematic cases is that of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. He died after being shot by ICE agents during an operation in Houston, Texas. US authorities indicated that the man tried to ram the agents with his vehicle. His family and the Mexican government questioned that version and called for an independent investigation.
Mexico will also sue private companies that operate immigration detention centers. It points out alleged irregularities in accommodation and medical care conditions. The center of Adelanto, California, is one of the main ones highlighted. Several Mexicans have died there and complaints have been filed for deficiencies in basic services.
At the same time, the SRE will request intervention from international organizations. It will appeal to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, demanding better conditions and guarantees for migrants.
