THE GOVERNMENT OF MEXICO STRONGLY CONDEMNS THE MOST RECENT VIOLENT INCIDENT ON THE NOGALES BORDER

The Foreign Ministry expresses the strong condemnation of the government of Mexico for the October 10 incident on the border between Nogales, Sonora and Nogales, Arizona. According to the information available, U.S. Border Patrol agents fired into national territory, causing the death of a Mexican minor.

The disproportionate use of lethal force by immigration officials is unacceptable under any circumstances. Cases of this type have provoked the displeasure of the Mexican society, all branches of government and all political forces, especially given their recurrence. The event must be fully explained and there must be perfect clarity about the policies and actions the U.S. government is taking to address this serious bilateral problem.

The Consulate General of Mexico in Nogales immediately sent an official communication to the U.S. authorities requesting a thorough, timely and transparent investigation that carries through to the application of all relevant penalties. This same demand was also transmitted through diplomatic channels. The Mexican government will be alert to the information and conclusions presented by the U.S. authorities. At the same time, Mexican state and federal law enforcement officials have begun investigations to determine responsibilities in their respective jurisdictions.

The Foreign Ministry has instructed the Consulate General of Mexico in Nogales to provide the families of the deceased with all necessary consular assistance and legal advice.

The Mexican government reiterates its commitment to continue working with the U.S. government to ensure the full implementation of the Mexico-United States Joint Statement on the Prevention of Violence in the Border Region and the Border Violence Prevention Protocols to prevent and respond to situations of this nature.