Six Cuban nationals were apprehended by the National Civil Police of Guatemala (PNC) during an operation on one of the country's highways. The arrest took place in the La Felicidad neighborhood, Agua Blanca department, by officers from the Jutiapa precinct, according to a post on the PNC's Facebook profile.
During the operation, Yurvin "N", 28, and Camilo "N", 37, were arrested, accused of human trafficking. The Cubans, whose details were not disclosed, were traveling in vehicles P-477DTT and P-981KJC, along with eight migrants from Ecuador, three from Bangladesh, and one each from Peru, India, and Turkey.
The migrants received assistance and were transported to the Guatemalan Institute of Migration at the Agua Caliente border in Esquipulas, Chiquimula, the note adds.
Recent Police Corruption Scandal
This latest detention comes just days after agents from the PNC's General Inspectorate dismantled a network of corrupt police officers involved in extorting migrants using the country as a transit point to reach the United States, including several Cubans. At the time of the arrest, the police had extorted nine migrants, demanding $100 from each, according to local media reports.
At the end of July, the PNC detained two Cuban migrants who, along with other foreigners, were traveling irregularly through Central American territory. The capture occurred at kilometer 181 on the Inter-American route in the jurisdiction of Chiquimula.
Key Questions on Migrant Detentions in Guatemala
The following questions and answers provide more insight into the recent detentions of migrants in Guatemala and the broader context of police corruption and irregular migration.
Why were the Cuban migrants detained in Guatemala?
The Cuban migrants were detained for irregular transit through Guatemala. They were traveling without proper documentation and were accused of being involved in human trafficking.
What actions did the Guatemalan authorities take following the arrest?
The migrants were assisted and transferred to the Guatemalan Institute of Migration at the Agua Caliente border for further processing.
What is the significance of the recent dismantling of the corrupt police network?
The dismantling of the corrupt police network is significant as it highlights the ongoing issue of police corruption in Guatemala, particularly involving the extortion of migrants. This corruption exacerbates the dangers faced by migrants traveling through the region.