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A large operation by Mexican authorities uncovered a criminal network dedicated to extortion and abusive lending, in which two Cuban citizens are also involved.
The operation, named "Disconnection," was conducted over 46 days in the State of Mexico and resulted in the arrest of 102 individuals, 77 of whom are foreigners. Among those detained are Colombians, Venezuelans, and also Cubans, which once again highlights the vulnerability of migrants who find themselves—voluntarily or involuntarily—involved in criminal organizations outside the island.
According to the Attorney General's Office of the State of Mexico, authorities managed to dismantle a complex network operating through call centers, where mass calls were made to deceive victims. Using claims such as supposed irregular bank transactions, false prizes, or pending delivery packages, those involved obtained personal information and pressured individuals to transfer money.
The scheme also included the lending system known as “gota a gota,” an illegal practice that offers quick cash but ultimately leads to threats, intimidation, and abusive collections. According to investigations, these networks were not only involved in extortion but were also linked to other crimes such as money laundering, human trafficking, and drug dealing.
In total, the authorities seized 192 properties, including 67 call centers, as well as electronic equipment, cash, and other materials used to commit the crimes.
Of the detainees, at least 50 have already been charged and remain in preventive detention, among them the two Cubans, whose legal future will now depend on both the judicial authorities and their immigration status in Mexico.
The case reflects an increasingly complex reality for many Cuban migrants in the region, who face not only economic and legal challenges but also the risk of falling into criminal networks that exploit their vulnerability.
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