Wave of migrants that halted trains in Mexico started with migrant smuggling industry in Darien Gap

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The recent wave of migrants causing disruptions in Mexico, including the closure of a U.S. border crossing and the suspension of freight trains, has its roots in the migrant smuggling industry operating in the Darien Gap. This ongoing phenomenon involves a continuous flow of migrants being transported from Colombia through the treacherous Darien Gap jungle into Panama, with estimates approaching 500,000 migrants this year.

The journey for these migrants doesn’t stop there. They proceed uninterrupted through Central America, eventually reaching Mexico and the U.S. border. This constant influx is organized by smugglers who operate jungle camps on the Colombian side of the Darien Gap, with approximately 3,500 migrants moved daily, reflecting the capacity of these camps.

This perilous jungle crossing has been significantly shortened, now taking as little as two days for the fittest walkers, thanks to a network of guides, established camps, and rudimentary trail markers that start in Necocli, Colombia. It appears that Colombian paramilitary groups play a dominant role in this operation, with some of their proceeds funneled to Panama’s autonomous Indigenous groups.

In response to this unprecedented flow of migrants, Panama’s government has announced increased deportations. The smuggling network has become highly efficient, getting migrants from Venezuela to central Mexico in just over two weeks, a journey that used to take months. Consequently, detentions along the U.S.-Mexico border have risen by 33% from June to July, reversing a previous decline following new asylum restrictions in May.

The criminal gangs running the smuggling operation are motivated to move people quickly. This situation seems unlikely to change until efforts are made to disrupt the criminal networks in places like Necocli.

Migrants face numerous dangers along their journey, including corruption among officials, the threat of gangs, theft, and sexual abuse. Tragically, many encounter the remains of those who did not survive the trek, decomposing along the jungle trail in Darien.

The smuggling industry in Colombia operates with a system of two bracelets attached to migrants who pay the $350 smuggling fee. One bracelet indicates payment of the gang tax, while the other signifies a contribution to Panamanian Indigenous groups in whose territory the migrants pass.

While Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua seem inclined to swiftly move migrants through their countries, Guatemala stands out for reports of repeated sexual abuse and extortion by its police force.

However, the deadliest part of the journey for migrants, apart from the jungle, is in Mexico, particularly when they attempt to hop aboard freight trains. These trains, collectively known as “The Beast,” have been used by migrants for years, but the situation has become increasingly hazardous. In some cases, migrants crowd onto the narrow tops of tank cars, a risky endeavor that can lead to fatal falls.

Mexico’s largest railroad, Ferromex, has temporarily halted numerous freight trains due to migrants climbing aboard, causing safety concerns and even injuries or deaths. This influx of migrants has forced the closure of a U.S. border crossing in Eagle Pass, Texas, as customs and border protection personnel are redirected to handle the migrant influx.

For many migrants, the idea of hitching a train ride is daunting, given the risks involved. Some, like Félix Rodríguez from Venezuela, opt for alternative means to reach their destination, despite the challenges.

While this surge of migrants differs from the organized caravans of the past, it reflects the determination of individuals and families who, facing numerous dangers, are willing to endure a perilous journey in pursuit of a better life. In this difficult journey, mutual support among migrants, especially among Venezuelans, remains a source of strength and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Migrant Smuggling

More about Migrant Smuggling

• Darien Gap: The Deadly Jungle – National Geographic’s in-depth report on the Darien Gap and its role in migrant smuggling.
• Migrant Smuggling Networks – United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) information on migrant smuggling networks.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Official website providing updates on border security and migration statistics.
• The Beast: Dangerous Train Journey for Migrants – Associated Press article highlighting the risks associated with hopping onto freight trains in Mexico.
• Central American Migrant Caravans – Brookings Institution analysis of Central American migrant caravans for context on previous migration patterns.