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Ten Cuban immigrants and one Venezuelan, with irregular immigration status in Mexico, were intercepted during a police operation conducted on Friday in Tlacolula de Matamoros, in the state of Oaxaca, which resulted in the arrest of two alleged "coyotes", authorities reported.
While State Police and Municipal Police were conducting a surveillance patrol in that area, they became suspicious of a brown Chrysler vehicle, with license plates from the state of Tamaulipas, on 26th of September Street.
Upon intercepting it, they discovered that it was carrying 11 foreign individuals: 10 of Cuban nationality and one from Venezuela, according to a statement released by the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC) of Oaxaca.
The police immediately detained a woman and a man, identified by the initials MJPO and DAR, for their "likely involvement in the crime of human trafficking." Both were presented to the Attorney General's Office (FGR), which will determine their legal status, the official report emphasized.
The rescued immigrants were placed in the custody of the National Migration Institute (INM) so that they can receive the "appropriate attention" for their cases.
Following the tightening of U.S. immigration policy with the return of President Donald Trump to the White House, the flow of migrants through Mexico has drastically plummeted, where in recent years hundreds of thousands of people had arrived with the intention of entering U.S. territory.
According to data from INM, between 2019 and 2025, more than 16 million immigrants passed through Mexico; of which, 10.5 million managed to cross into the U.S., while 6.3 million chose to stay in the country.
Challenging the dangers and obstacles of the migratory journey, thousands of Cubans arrived in Mexico in the last five years, mostly with the intention of entering the United States and seeking asylum. However, starting in January, due to the border restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, many were forced to change their plans and have turned Mexico into a destination option instead of a transit point.
The current migration exodus of Cubans, the largest in the history of the island, has been driven by the economic and political crisis, and the lack of opportunities in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Detention of Cuban Immigrants in Mexico
What happened during a police operation in Tlacolula de Matamoros, Oaxaca?
Ten Cuban immigrants and one Venezuelan were intercepted during a police operation in Tlacolula de Matamoros, Oaxaca. Additionally, two individuals were arrested for their alleged involvement in human trafficking. The migrants were placed under the custody of the National Institute of Migration (INM) to receive appropriate care.
What impact has Donald Trump's immigration policy had on the flow of Cubans to the United States?
With Donald Trump's return to the presidency, the flow of Cuban migrants has decreased drastically. The new restrictions have forced many Cubans to consider Mexico as a destination rather than a transit point to the United States. This has led to changes in migration patterns and a greater number of Cubans remaining in Mexico.
What happens to Cuban immigrants after they are intercepted in Mexico?
After being intercepted, Cuban immigrants are placed in the custody of the National Institute of Migration (INM). The INM provides the necessary care for immigrants while their immigration status is evaluated. Depending on their status, they may be deported or assisted in regularizing their situation.
What is the current migration situation of Cubans in Mexico?
Many Cubans have chosen to stay in Mexico due to the restrictions for entering the United States. The economic and political crisis in Cuba remains a key factor driving Cubans to seek better opportunities outside the island. However, they face significant risks during their journey, including exploitation and human trafficking.
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