Latest Group of Central American Migrants Continues Northern Trek, Reports Reuters

By Lizbeth Diaz

MEXICO CITY – A significant number of Central American migrants set out on their journey toward the United States on Thursday, according to officials in Mexico City. This growing group of asylum seekers is escaping violence and poverty in their home countries.

Approximately 2,400 migrants departed from a city shelter early Thursday morning, marking the latest caravan to undertake the perilous trek to the U.S.-Mexico border despite governmental efforts to deter them. Since last October, thousands of mainly Central American individuals have attempted to enter the United States, many choosing to travel in caravans. This strategy helps reduce the risks of kidnapping and attacks from criminal gangs while they are in Mexico.

The possibility of waiting for weeks or even months at the border, where violent crime rates are high, has not dampened the spirits of these migrants. Honduran migrant Maria Murillo, accompanied by her young son, expressed, "I know it’s violent at the border, but I have to take that risk. I don’t have any more money and my family is waiting for me in the United States."

Other migrants are evaluating their routes, hoping to improve their chances of a successful crossing. Fellow Honduran Oscar Lopez stated, "I’m not thinking of going to Tijuana, but I will make it to Monterrey," as he traveled with his wife and two children.

On Tuesday, the U.S. government sent back the first Central American asylum seeker through the Tijuana border crossing, a step in the stringent immigration policies adopted by the current administration. Many migrants voiced their disapproval of this new policy, suggesting it may expose them to heightened risks in increasingly violent border towns. Some indicated they might resort to crossing illegally if necessary. "I’m not thinking of returning to Honduras, and if it’s necessary, I’ll pay to have someone help me cross," said Mauricio Gomez.

Immigration advocates have raised alarms about the dangers facing U.S.-bound migrants in Mexico, where kidnappings by gangs and smugglers are common. Concerns have also been expressed regarding the lack of access to adequate legal assistance for those sent back to Mexico while trying to navigate U.S. immigration courts.