According to data from the National Institute of Migration (INM), a total of 276,722 individuals were detained for irregular migration situations between January and May this year. This accounts for 95% of all detentions registered so far in 2023.
In 2022, Tabasco recorded a record-high number of 292,459 migrant detentions, the highest in over a decade. As a result, Tabasco is poised to set a new record for migrant apprehensions in 2024, surpassing last year’s figures.
Top Migrant Detention Hotspots
The municipality of Centro stands out as the national leader in detecting migrants, with a staggering 93,618 foreigners detained. This even surpasses Tapachula, Chiapas, which was previously considered one of the main migrant detention hotspots.
Other municipalities like Huimanguillo have also seen a significant number of people presenting themselves to authorities for irregular migration issues.
Policy Failure
Despite national efforts to curb irregular migration, it appears that these actions are not having the desired effect. Tabasco has become a key transit point for migrants in Mexico.
Shelter Overcrowding
Karina Vidal Baeza, General Coordinator of the Albergue Amparito in Villahermosa, reported that their facilities have been operating at 100% capacity on weekends due to the influx of detained migrants being sent back from northern cities. The shelter is working tirelessly to support migrant families, many of whom are returned from the north and face difficulties trying to reach the United States or settle in Mexico.
Reduced Stay Times
The Albergue Amparito has reduced its stay times for migrants to accommodate more families, but still provides essential services like legal advice, clothing, and food donations. Vidal Baeza noted that they have been receiving between 400-500 migrants per month, many of whom are families from Honduras, Venezuela, Senegal, Russia, and Afghanistan.
Guatemalan Refugee Status
According to Alfredo Danilo Rivera, Director of the INM in Guatemala, 207 Mexicans (mainly children, teenagers, and young adults) have been granted humanitarian status in Guatemala due to fear of organized crime groups in Mexico. This certification allows them to seek regular immigration status, including asylum or refuge.
Mexican Migration to Guatemala
Rivera also highlighted that while many migrants are heading north to the United States, a significant number of Mexicans are migrating to Guatemala, driven by fears of violence and persecution in their home country.
Support for Refugees
Organizations both national and international have been providing essential supplies like food, water, and clothing to these vulnerable individuals.
Source: Diario Presente
