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Mexican agents to increase patrolling, humanitarian assistance
Coinciding with the summer season, the National Migration Institute (INM) of Mexico, has reinforced its patrolling and humanitarian assistance throughout the northern and southern border states, in order to protect migrants from inclement weather and the many hazards they face through their journey.
In a statement released June 22, the Ministry of the Interior (SeGob) informed that “Operation Summer 2010” has been launched by the Beta Group - a special task force unit similar to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the United States - within a coverage area that includes the U.S. border to the north, and Guatemala and Belize’s border to the south, reports the examiner.com website.
The program is effective from Mon., June 21, to Sept., 23, and consists of patrolling reinforcement, humanitarian support, rescue and migrant guidance.
A total a 16 Beta Groups are being deployed to border states such as Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila and Tamaulipas, in the north; and to Veracruz, Chiapas and Tabasco in the south.
In this special summer operation, immigration officials will try to dissuade migrants from continuing their journey, warning them about the risk of dehydration due to long walks in temperatures that can reach or surpass three digits.
During the “Operation Summer 2010,” the Beta Group agents will carry hydrating materials and first aid kits, as well as food and water to safeguard the welfare of migrants. They will provide guidance and information to also prevent gastrointestinal infections or deaths from heat stroke, especially among migrants who would expose themselves to the sun for a long period of time, particularly those crossing the desert.
According to INM data, from January to May 2010, Beta Groups have conducted 6,212 patrolling operations, rescued 2,234 individuals, provided first aid to 489 injured, located 85 people reported as lost, and provided social assistance to 104,160 migrants.
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