The Government of Mexico is taking firm steps to ensure the protection of Mexican nationals in the United States following 17 deaths in ICE custody or during enforcement operations since May 2025.
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced Mexico has filed a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice requesting investigations into each case. The Mexican Ambassador also submitted requests to attorneys general in 8 states and 12 county prosecutors where the incidents occurred.
Diplomatic engagement is also underway. The Ambassador met with U.S. Department of Homeland Security and ICE officials to discuss detention conditions, and Mexico wrote to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights requesting recommendations to prevent future cases.
Sheinbaum said the goal is to uphold the human rights of all Mexicans abroad. “All Mexicans should say that violations of the human rights of Mexicans—whether in Mexico or abroad—must not happen,” she stated.
Mexico also issued a cease-and-desist to the private operator of the Adelanto ICE detention center in California and reaffirmed it will continue working through diplomatic channels to strengthen cooperation and safeguards for Mexican citizens.