Mexico Initiates Criminal Cases in U.S. Over Deaths of 17 Nationals in ICE Custody
The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) will file criminal complaints in the United States regarding the deaths of 17 Mexican nationals who died in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody or during ICE operations. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the action, stating the complaints would be directed to the U.S. Department of Justice and state Attorneys General. The move follows Foreign Affairs Minister Roberto Velasco's earlier announcement of intent to seek accountability for these deaths.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) would file criminal complaints in the United States. These complaints concern the deaths of 17 Mexican nationals who reportedly died while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody or during ICE operations.
The SRE plans to submit these complaints to the U.S. Department of Justice and various state Attorneys General. Foreign Affairs Minister Roberto Velasco had previously indicated the SRE's intention to take such action, aiming to hold those responsible accountable for the deaths.
President Sheinbaum also addressed the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, who was shot by an ICE officer in Houston last week. She described the incident as "practically murder." Local authorities in Houston are investigating the shooting, and the Mexican government understands that the U.S. government is also conducting an investigation.
Velasco reportedly contacted U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ron Johnson to inform him of the Mexican government's plans to defend Mexican nationals in the United States. Sheinbaum indicated that Ambassador Johnson expressed understanding regarding Mexico's concerns about alleged human rights violations of Mexicans in detention centers and the deaths that occurred during ICE operations.
During the same press briefing, Sheinbaum commented on a new National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) report concerning the 2014 disappearance of 43 Ayotzinapa students. She clarified that her government was not involved in producing the report and requested the Interior Ministry review its findings before an official position is issued. She emphasized the government's priority remains solidarity with the students' families and resolving the case.
Regarding economic matters, Sheinbaum stated she is not concerned about other automakers relocating from Mexico, despite Toyota's decision to move Tacoma production from Tijuana to Texas. She hinted that an unnamed automaker is considering opening a new plant in Mexico, with further details expected soon.
(Source: Mexico News Daily)
