Mexico to file complaint in US over death of national in ICE custody

By Maryam Ashalem de Andres

ISTANBUL (AA) - Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that her government would file a complaint with US authorities over the death of a Mexican national in Texas immigration detention while condemning racism against Mexican migrants and pledging support for Mexicans living in the United States.

“We are also going to file a complaint in the United States because there must be protection for human rights,” Sheinbaum said during her morning press conference.

Emiliano Andrade-Covarrubias, 56, died in US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody at the Rio Grande Processing Center in Laredo, Texas.

Andrade-Covarrubias, who reportedly suffered from a heart condition, diabetes and high blood pressure, was found unconscious in his cell and later pronounced dead. For months, he had complained to his daughter about the lack of medical care at the facility.

Mexico's Foreign Ministry has demanded a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation to establish the circumstances of his death and determine whether any authorities bear responsibility.

The ministry said the Mexican Consulate General in Laredo activated its protection protocol after being notified of the death, contacted the family and provided consular assistance.

The Mexican government will submit a complaint to the prosecutor in Webb County, where Laredo is located, while Mexico's embassy will also seek guarantees of consular access to immigration detention facilities.

Sheinbaum said her administration would strengthen consular efforts to protect the rights of Mexican nationals detained abroad.

She also reiterated her rejection of all forms of racism against Mexican migrants and pledged continued support for the Mexican community in the United States.

“Mexico's government and its president will always be their ally,” she said.

The death brings to 18 the number of Mexican nationals who have died in ICE custody or during immigration enforcement operations since US President Donald Trump returned to office on Jan. 20, 2025, according to Mexican media reports.

The cause of Andrade's death has not been officially established. Mexican authorities have called for transparency and accountability as investigations proceed.

The case adds to diplomatic tensions over the treatment of migrants in US detention facilities, with Mexico seeking stronger safeguards for its citizens abroad.

Mariam Ashalem De Andres