Photos: Reuters
Carlos González Gutiérrez, Mexico’s consul general in Los Angeles , reported that at least 50 migrants have been detained in raids by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the majority of whom are Mexican.
“So far, we are aware of the arrests of just under 50 migrants, most likely Mexicans, as a result of yesterday’s operations.
He added that in addition to Friday’s arrests, which took place at a workplace and a meeting place for day laborers, there has been an increase in recent days in the arrests of migrants attending their immigration court appointments.
He noted that, under orders from President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente, personnel from the Consulates of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Santa Ana are visiting detention centers to search for detained nationals.
“If you have an upcoming court date, we suggest consulting with your immigration attorney beforehand to explore the possibility of having them accompany you or arrange for your hearing to be held virtually.”
If a person is arrested, he reminded them of five points: remain calm and respectful of authorities; do not resist or hit officers; and do not lie or provide false documentation.
Do not sign documents that you do not understand, remain silent, or communicate with the consulate.
In case of arrest, please call the Information and Assistance Center for Mexicans: 520-623-7874.
In response to migrant raids in Los Angeles, Mexico demands that the US enforce due process.
Mexico has activated consular assistance and protection mechanisms to ensure that detained Mexicans receive adequate legal counsel and fair treatment.
Following two consecutive days of intense immigration raids in Los Angeles , California, which have left at least 50 migrants detained, mostly Mexicans, the Mexican government expressed its deep concern over recent operations carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“The Mexican government reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting and defending the human rights of Mexicans abroad, regardless of their immigration status,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
In this regard, Mexico demanded, with a “respectful but firm call” from U.S. authorities, that all immigration procedures be carried out in accordance with due process, within a framework of respect for human dignity and the rule of law.
Through its consular network, Mexico has immediately activated consular assistance and protection mechanisms to ensure that our detained nationals receive adequate legal counsel and fair treatment.
Our consulates have intensified their efforts to inform the Mexican community about their rights and the actions they can take if they are the target of an immigration operation.
The Government of Mexico will continue to use all available diplomatic and legal channels to express its dissatisfaction with practices that criminalize migration and jeopardize the safety and well-being of our communities in the United States.
Migration must be addressed from a comprehensive, humane perspective and with regional co-responsibility.
“Mexico reiterates its willingness to continue collaborating with the United States government in the search for solutions that prioritize respect for human rights, the rule of law, and shared development.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that in case of requiring consular assistance or protection, the contact numbers are reiterated: (213) 219-0175 and CIAM: (520) 623-7874.
