Cuban migrants among those detained by the police in Chiapas, Mexico

During an operation conducted on Monday in the municipality of Puerto Madero, in the Mexican state of Chiapas, local authorities detained a group of migrants who were staying at a hotel in the area.

Among those detained are several citizens of Cuban nationality, who were part of just over twenty individuals from various countries.

Through a statement, the Secretary of Public Security (SSP) reported that, in conjunction with the State Attorney General's Office (FGE), they conducted an inter-institutional operation in Puerto Madero, Chiapas, which resulted in the arrest of 21 individuals in transit.

According to reports from local media, the detained individuals come from various nationalities, including Cubans, Ecuadorians, Indians, Venezuelans, Azerbaijanis, and Sudanese.

The arrest took place at a hotel following an anonymous tip that raised concerns about his possible detention against his will.

During the operation, authorities found that while the migrants claimed they were not being held against their will, none could prove their legal status in Mexico.

As a result, they were moved to a temporary shelter under the supervision of the National Institute of Migration (INM), where they will receive assistance while their immigration status is being resolved.

Authorities emphasized that these procedures aim to protect individuals in transit as well as ensure compliance with immigration laws.

The presence of migrants from such diverse countries highlights the increase in migratory flows to Mexico as a strategic gateway to the United States.

Human rights organizations have emphasized the importance of ensuring dignified treatment for these individuals and have urged Mexican authorities to implement measures that protect their rights during their stay in the country.

This operation is part of a series of recent actions in which Cuban migrants have been detained or rescued in Mexican territory.

For example, on January 2, 2025, 25 Cuban migrants were intercepted in the municipality of Suchiate, Chiapas, which borders Guatemala.

The Chiapas State Border Police located the migrants in a vehicle, but the driver was not found at the scene. The detained individuals were taken to the Immigration Prosecutor's Office to receive assistance and ensure their rights are protected.

Additionally, on January 4, 2025, the Mexican Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard collaborated in the rescue of eight Cuban rafters 111 kilometers north of the port of Progreso, Yucatán.

The migrants exhibited symptoms of dehydration and were handed over to the INM.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Detention of Cuban Migrants in Chiapas, Mexico