Cuban migrants will be sent back to their home country after being detained by Mexican authorities during an operation that intercepted over 450 immigrants in Tlaxcala state this past Saturday. The undocumented migrants hailed from Central and South American countries, including Cuba, Haiti, Venezuela, El Salvador, and Honduras. They were detected near Soltepec, in the municipality of Tlaxco, while traveling in various rail gondolas (train trailers) belonging to the Ferrosur railway company.
A post on the "Fuerza Coordinada Tlaxcala" Facebook page noted that all the immigrants were in "precarious conditions of health, food, and hydration," including children and pregnant women who were part of the group. The publication did not specify the number of Cubans detained in the operation.
The operation was led by Mexico's National Institute of Migration (INM), with participation from the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSC), the National Guard (GN), and the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA). Additionally, a representative from the National Human Rights Commission was present "to ensure that no human rights and dignity of the undocumented immigrants were violated."
The INM stated that the individuals will be repatriated to their countries of origin after the necessary procedures are completed.
Massive Cuban Exodus Since 2021
Since the massive exodus began in 2021, the largest in Cuban history, thousands of Cubans have continued their migratory journey through Central and South American countries to Mexico, intending to reach the United States and seek asylum. During these perilous journeys, many have been detained and deported, while others have met worse fates, dying in traffic accidents or falling victim to crimes.
There have also been numerous reports of Cuban rafters who, in their attempt to reach the coast of Florida, have ended up on Mexican land or have been rescued after capsizing at sea.
In 2024 alone, 646 Cuban immigrants have been deported or repatriated to the island by sea or air from various countries in the region, according to data from Cuba's Ministry of the Interior.
FAQs on Cuban Migrant Deportation from Mexico
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the recent detention and deportation of Cuban migrants in Mexico.
How many Cuban migrants were detained in Tlaxcala?
The exact number of Cuban migrants detained in Tlaxcala was not specified in the report.
What conditions were the migrants found in?
The migrants were found in precarious conditions of health, food, and hydration, including children and pregnant women.
Which authorities were involved in the operation?
The operation was led by Mexico's National Institute of Migration (INM), with the involvement of the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSC), the National Guard (GN), and the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA).