A Mexican judge has reportedly closed the criminal case against Francisco Garduno, the former head of the country’s National Migration Institute, concerning the devastating 2023 fire at a detention facility in Ciudad Juarez that resulted in the deaths of 40 migrants and left 30 others injured. The deadly incident, which stands as the most fatal event in the history of Mexico's migration system, allegedly exposed deep-seated irregularities and institutional failures within the country's detention infrastructure.
Garduno had been facing prosecution for abuse of public office and dereliction of duty after surveillance footage surfaced showing guards failing to respond to desperate cries for help or unlock doors as smoke rapidly filled the locked dormitory. On Tuesday, Judge Victor Manlio Hernandez Calderon ruled that Garduno had supposedly fulfilled court-mandated measures aimed at addressing the damage, paving the way for the closure of the case.
Victims and human rights organizations swiftly rejected the ruling, denouncing it as a de facto exoneration and proof of systemic impunity. The Foundation for Justice, an NGO representing several victims, asserted that the decision confirms that justice in Mexico remains selective and fails to provide full reparations or tangible guarantees against future tragedies. Miguel Zenteno, a lawyer for the foundation, pointed out that the financial compensation was improperly paid using funds from the migration institute rather than Garduno's personal assets, while the mandated public apology was dismissed as a mere formality.
Legal representatives for the victims have announced plans to appeal the decision, noting that critical injunctions remain pending. While Garduno and another former director managed to evade immediate criminal liability, several lower-ranking immigration agents, a military officer, a private security guard, and two migrants accused of initiating the blaze continue to face homicide and assault charges as the broader legal fallout unfolds.
Source: www.aljazeera.com