Four members of the Guatemalan National Civil Police (PNC) were arrested for their involvement in extortion cases targeting migrants transiting through the country to reach the United States, including several Cubans. The arrests were carried out by agents from the PNC's General Inspectorate. At the time of their arrest, the officers had been extorting nine migrants, demanding $100 from each, according to local media reports.
Among the migrants were seven Cubans and two Venezuelans, including an eight-year-old girl. The migrants were traveling in a Pullman bus heading to the Tecún Umán border in San Marcos.
In a statement, the PNC indicated that they acted following an anonymous tip received by the Anti-Corruption Police Center. This information had already been under investigation by the police themselves, they assured. "Based on surveillance, the actions of four bad elements were documented, and upon observing potential evidence for judicial prosecution, we requested the presence of the Public Ministry, who identified each suspect. Internally, we began the process of removing them from the police force and expanding the investigations into these individuals who dishonored their names," the statement read.
The PNC also emphasized, "The National Civil Police is the only institution that self-cleanses continuously, confirming its firm commitment not to tolerate acts of corruption and those contrary to the law."
Although the migrants were not identified, their cases were likely forwarded to the relevant authorities to assess their situation in the country. Extortion and violence are common challenges faced by migrants on their journey to the southern border of the United States.
Last year, a video shared on social media raised alarms about the presence of criminal groups along various points of Mexican highways through which buses carrying migrants pass. Videos recorded from a bus showed what appeared to be one of these fake checkpoints by supposed "Mexican authorities." Shared through the Facebook group 'CBP ONE ayuda información latinos,' the voice of one passenger described the "bite" mechanism used by the fake federal police.
Additionally, 13 Cuban migrants reported an extortion attempt by officers from the National Institute of Migration (INM) in Tapachula, southern Mexico, in December of last year.
FAQs on Migrant Extortion and Guatemalan Police Involvement
Given the recent events involving the Guatemalan National Civil Police and the extortion of migrants, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to shed more light on the situation.
What led to the arrest of the Guatemalan police officers?
The arrests were made following an anonymous tip to the Anti-Corruption Police Center, which led to a surveillance operation documenting the officers' extortion activities.
How were the migrants being extorted?
The detained officers were demanding $100 from each of the nine migrants they had under their control.
Were the identities of the migrants disclosed?
No, the identities of the migrants were not disclosed, but their cases were likely forwarded to the relevant authorities for further assessment.
Is extortion a common issue for migrants in transit?
Yes, extortion and violence are common challenges faced by migrants on their journey to the southern border of the United States.