A 24-year-old Cuban citizen was shot in the center of Tapachula, a city in the border state of Chiapas, Mexico, in what police have described as an attempted kidnapping. Identified as Yurisdel “N”, the Cuban national was at a BBVA bank ATM located at the intersection of 4th North and Central West when alleged hitmen tried to abduct him, according to local media reports.
The attackers fired a shot that hit a nearby wall, while the Cuban managed to take refuge in a nearby bakery, protecting his life. This incident drew the attention of local residents, who activated their alarms and speculated that the event was a bank robbery, a claim that was later debunked.
Mexican police officers quickly mobilized to the scene, setting up a strong presence in the area, and escorted Yurisdel to one of their stations to give a statement about the incident. “A spent 9mm shell casing was found at the scene,” reported the local outlet El Orbe.
These events highlight the difficult conditions faced by migrants during their journey, whose main destination is the U.S. border to legally seek political asylum. In May, another Cuban migrant passed away inside his rented home at the Costa Verde condominium in Tapachula, Chiapas. The media outlet Ultimatum Mx reported that the tragic event occurred when the Cuban, José Pablo "N", supposedly suffered a cardiac arrest.
Earlier this year, Mexican justice sentenced a Cuban man to 30 years in prison for brutally murdering his ex-partner in a Tapachula bar at the end of November 2023. The State Attorney General’s Office (FGE), through the Prosecutor’s Office Against Femicide, secured the conviction of Iván Cabrera Martínez for the femicide of his ex-partner Yarlenis Ortiz.
Frequently Asked Questions about Migrant Safety in Mexico
The following questions provide insights into the safety concerns and legal processes affecting Cuban migrants in Mexico.
What are the primary dangers faced by Cuban migrants in Mexico?
Cuban migrants in Mexico often face threats such as kidnappings, robberies, and violence from criminal organizations. They are also at risk of health issues due to poor living conditions.
How do Mexican authorities respond to crimes against migrants?
Mexican authorities typically respond by increasing police presence in affected areas and conducting investigations to apprehend perpetrators. However, the effectiveness of these measures can vary.
What legal recourse do migrants have if they are victims of crime in Mexico?
Migrants can file reports with local police and seek assistance from human rights organizations. Legal aid may also be available to help them navigate the justice system and seek asylum.