About 100 migrants from various countries are currently stranded in the troubled Pacific coast resort of Acapulco, Mexico. These migrants, who had been walking for weeks through southern Mexico with the hope of reaching the U.S. border, found themselves stuck in Acapulco after accepting an offer from immigration officials. Mexico's immigration policy of dispersing migrants throughout the country to prevent them from accumulating at the U.S. border has left these migrants in a state of uncertainty.
Acapulco, once a popular tourist destination, now grapples with issues of organized crime and the aftermath of Hurricane Otis in 2023. Despite the challenges faced by the city, migrants are left with limited options as they struggle to continue their journey north.
Migrants like a 28-year-old Venezuelan expressed their frustration at being stranded in Acapulco without any means to move forward. Authorities have been allowing migrants to walk for days until they are exhausted, only to offer them bus rides to various cities where their immigration status will be reviewed.
While some migrants have been granted permits to travel freely within Mexico for a specified period, others find themselves restricted to the state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located. Concerns about safety and security arise as migrants fear being targeted by drug cartels or facing extortion from authorities.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum maintains that the immigration strategy is humanitarian-focused, but critics point out that migrants are being taken to areas plagued by violence. Despite the challenges, local priests in Acapulco have been providing support to migrants with essentials like water, food, and clothing.
However, finding work in Acapulco proves to be difficult for migrants, given the city's ongoing struggles with violence and economic instability. The situation is further complicated by the high rates of homicides and extortion faced by residents and businesses in Acapulco.
For migrants like Honduran Jorge Neftalí Alvarenga, the reality of their situation falls short of their expectations. Disillusioned and uncertain about their next steps, these migrants in Acapulco find themselves in a challenging and precarious position.
