Cuban migrants are detained in the border area between Mexico and Guatemala

More than 11,000 Cubans applied for asylum in Mexico in 2024.

Cubanos detenidos en Suchiate © Facebook/Real Cintalapa
Cubans detained in SuchiatePhoto © Facebook/Real Cintalapa

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Twenty-five migrants of Cuban origin were detained by the General Prosecutor's Office of the State (FGE) of Chiapas in the municipality of Suchiate, which borders Guatemala.

The arrest was carried out by the Immigration Prosecutor's Office in the Ignacio Zaragoza community in the municipality of Suchiate, during an operation conducted by the State Border Police, as reported in a statement published on their social media.

Facebook screenshot/Attorney General's Office of the State of Chiapas

According to the official report, the arrest occurred after police officers, during a preventive patrol, located a vehicle transporting migrants. However, the driver of the vehicle was not found at the scene.

Following the operation, the migrants were taken to the Immigration Prosecutor's Office facilities to receive comprehensive support and ensure their rights.

The authorities have initiated an investigation based on the Standardized Police Report to determine the relevant responsibilities and take legal action against those involved in the transport of migrants.

The migration of Cuban citizens to Mexico has seen a significant increase in 2024, reflecting the intensification of the migration crisis in the region.

As of September 2024, more than 11,000 Cubans have applied for asylum in Mexico, making them the second-largest group of applicants, surpassed only by the Hondurans.

Throughout the past year, there were multiple caravans of migrants that included Cuban citizens.

In November 2024, a caravan of approximately 1,500 migrants departed from Tapachula heading north through Mexico, defying immigration policies and seeking to reach the United States.

Despite this, thousands of Cuban migrants remain stranded in Tapachula, facing difficulties in advancing on their journey to the United States.

Delays in immigration processes and precarious conditions have driven many to seek asylum in Mexico, although responses to these requests are often slow.

At the same time, Mexican authorities have conducted operations to rescue Cuban migrants in dangerous situations.

In November 2024, the rescue of 22 migrants, including four Cubans, who were kidnapped on a ranch in Chiapas was reported. The operation resulted in an armed confrontation, leaving two agents dead and several injured.

This context reflects the complexity and challenges of Cuban migration to and through Mexico, amidst shifting immigration policies and significant risks on the route to the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Detention of Cuban Migrants at the Mexico-Guatemala Border

Why were the Cuban migrants detained in Suchiate?

Cuban migrants were apprehended in Suchiate during a police operation conducted by the Chiapas State Border Police. They were found in a vehicle that was transporting 25 Cubans, although the driver was not present at the scene.

What happens to Cuban migrants after being detained in Mexico?

After being detained, Cuban migrants are taken to the facilities of the Immigration Prosecutor's Office to receive comprehensive care and ensure their rights are upheld. Mexican authorities also initiate investigations to determine the legal responsibilities of those who facilitate the transportation of migrants.

How has the migration crisis of Cubans to Mexico evolved?

The migration of Cuban citizens to Mexico has increased significantly, with over 11,000 Cubans applying for asylum by September 2024. This rise in migration reflects an intensification of the migration crisis in the region, with thousands of Cubans stranded in cities like Tapachula, facing difficulties in progressing towards the United States.

What risks do Cuban migrants face in Mexico?

Cuban migrants face significant risks, including kidnappings, extortion, and labor exploitation. In Mexico, organized crime networks have extorted various immigrants, and there have been reports of kidnappings and murders of Cubans, highlighting the vulnerability of those trying to reach the United States.

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CiberCuba Editorial Staff

A team of journalists dedicated to reporting on current events in Cuba and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we strive to provide accurate news and critical analysis.