An escape attempt that endangered the lives of eleven undocumented migrants, including six Cubans, resulted in the arrest of a suspected human trafficker in Guatemala. In an operation carried out by the Division of Ports, Airports, and Border Posts (DIPAFRONT) of the National Civil Police (PNC), authorities apprehended Erick “N.,” a 42-year-old man, who was illegally transporting six Cubans and five Haitians, including a 12-year-old child, in the back of a pickup truck under deplorable conditions.
The incident took place in the village of San Ixtán, located in the municipality of Jalpatagua, Jutiapa department. PNC agents were conducting a vehicle checkpoint when the driver of a Mitsubishi pickup, bearing the license plates P-073JLR, defied orders to stop and attempted to evade authorities by speeding away. "The driver ignored the stop signal at a checkpoint and accelerated," detailed the police report.
This action initiated a roughly one-kilometer chase along the route, during which the suspect, in a desperate attempt to escape, collided with at least six cars and 17 motorcycles, causing significant property damage.
Migrants Found Hidden Under a Tarp
Upon finally being intercepted by the officers, the vehicle was thoroughly inspected. It was then that police discovered eleven people hidden in the bed of the pickup, covered with a makeshift tarp. The victims, transported with no ventilation or basic safety measures, showed visible signs of dehydration and bruises. "In the bed, covered with a rustic tarp, six Cuban citizens and five Haitians, including a 12-year-old minor, were found hidden," reported the PNC.
The migrants were provided with water and subsequently taken to a Guatemalan Migration Institute (IGM) facility for medical assistance and to proceed with the necessary administrative processes.
Multi-Vehicle Crash and Collateral Damage
During the reckless escape, the now-detained individual caused a multi-vehicle crash. The impact affected about twenty vehicle owners who, outraged by the damage, accompanied the officers to file formal complaints. "The affected owners accompanied the police to file the corresponding complaints and demand repairs," confirmed the police statement.
The vehicle used for this illegal transport was confiscated as part of the legal proceedings. Authorities stressed that the detainee was handed over to the appropriate legal bodies, charged with the crime of human trafficking. Guatemala's National Civil Police has warned that it will continue to strengthen border controls and surveillance points to detect such illicit operations.
The Guatemalan Migration Institute will determine the future status of the rescued individuals, who are currently under protection and receiving assistance.
Key Questions on Human Trafficking Incident in Guatemala
What led to the arrest of the human trafficker in Guatemala?
The arrest occurred after a pursuit initiated when the suspect ignored a police checkpoint and caused a multi-vehicle accident while trying to escape.
How many migrants were involved in the incident?
Eleven undocumented migrants were involved, including six Cubans and five Haitians, one of whom was a 12-year-old child.
What actions are Guatemalan authorities taking to prevent human trafficking?
Guatemalan authorities are reinforcing border controls and surveillance to detect and prevent illegal human trafficking activities.