Mexico’s government has announced plans to file criminal complaints in the U.S. over the deaths of Mexican nationals in immigration custody or enforcement operations. The move follows the fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Mexican citizen, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Houston. Mexican officials have also targeted private detention center operators with civil lawsuits.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Mexico’s Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco revealed that 17 Mexican citizens have died in ICE custody or during enforcement operations since 2025. The government will submit complaints to U.S. prosecutors and state attorney generals, seeking criminal investigations. Additionally, Mexico plans to sue private companies operating ICE detention centers over alleged human rights violations.
Deeper Dive & Context
Legal and Diplomatic Escalation
President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that Mexico is moving beyond diplomatic channels after years of criticism over migrant treatment under the Trump administration. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied an increase in detainee deaths, asserting that all detainees receive due process and proper care.
Policy and Political Context
The complaints coincide with a surge in deportations under President Donald Trump’s administration. Since January 2025, at least six people have been shot dead in immigration enforcement operations. Mexico’s actions reflect growing tensions between the two nations over migration policies.
Civil Lawsuits Against Detention Centers
Mexico will send cease-and-desist letters to private detention center operators, demanding improvements to conditions linked to migrant deaths. If ignored, the government will proceed with civil litigation.
Opposing Perspectives
While Mexico frames the deaths as systemic failures, U.S. officials argue that enforcement actions are lawful and necessary. The DHS emphasized that detainees receive medical treatment and due process, countering Mexico’s claims of negligence.