ICE, Department of Justice, Mexico collaboration leads to indictment of 42 involved in human trafficking organization
MEXICO CITY – Forty-two individuals involved in a human trafficking organization were indicted Feb. 23 for trafficking undocumented migrants and minors, aggravated rape against an unaccompanied minor, sexual abuse of migrants, illegal abduction of migrants and for the fraudulent exercise of a public office.
The indictments result from the close collaboration between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Mexico City Attaché Office, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Mexican Office of the Attorney General of the Republic (PGR).
The investigation, spearheaded by the PGR, led to the arrest of the alleged leader of a human trafficking organization and accomplices whose actions resulted in the death of an Ecuadorean minor. According to the Mexican indictment, the individuals took direct part in the transportation and housing of the minor in 17 different places in Ecuador, Colombia, Honduras, Guatemala and Mexico.
The indictment also alleges that some members of the organization were responsible for operating the financial structure of the organization and took part in the trafficking. It further notes that they physically and sexually assaulted women and children.
“This case is an excellent example of the great bilateral relationship that exists between the United States and Mexico,” said HSI Mexico Attaché Timothy Tubbs. “We are committed to working with our international partners to ensure that those who prey on the innocent face justice.”
Through its International Operations, ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has 65 operational attaché offices in 46 countries around the world. HSI special agents work closely with foreign law enforcement agencies to combat the threat posed by criminal organizations engaged in cross-border crimes.
Updated: