The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement in which it deeply regretted the acts of violence that occurred in Tecate, between the cities of Tijuana and Mexicali, in the state of Baja California, Mexico. The incident took place in the midst of an armed confrontation in which a group of migrants, including seven Colombian citizens, was caught in the crossfire.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that two of the compatriots involved in the tragic incident lost their lives. The fatal victims were identified as Yuli Vanessa Herrera Marulanda, 37, and Ronaldo Andrés Quintero Peñuelas, 20. Another five Colombians who were at the scene were injured and were immediately transferred to the General Hospital of Mexico, where they are receiving medical attention.
From the moment it became aware of what had happened, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Consulate in Mexico, has been in constant communication with the Mexican authorities to obtain details about the incident and to guarantee the necessary consular support to the victims and their families. “We value the constant collaboration that exists with the authorities of that country,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in its official statement.
The Government of Colombia expressed its most sincere condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased. “We reiterate the commitment of the national Government to provide all the support required in this moment of pain,” stated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasizing its willingness to accompany the families of the victims and assist them in whatever is necessary.
Likewise, the Colombian authorities called on the Colombian community residing in Mexico to follow the security recommendations issued by the local authorities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed the importance of maintaining caution and acting prudently in risky situations, given the increasing violence in some regions of the country.
The situation of violence in Baja California is part of a broader problem related to conflicts between criminal organizations operating in the border region. Tijuana and its surroundings have been the scene of various violent episodes in recent years, which has generated concern not only among local residents, but also among the authorities of both countries. Migrants of different nationalities, including Colombians, have been victims of this violence in their attempt to cross into the United States or seek better living conditions.
In this context, the Government of Colombia has reiterated its commitment to the protection of its citizens abroad and has assured that it will continue to provide support to the victims of this type of events. The authorities also reported that, in coordination with the Colombian consulate in Mexico, assistance will continue to be provided to the injured Colombians and support to the families of the deceased victims to facilitate the repatriation of the bodies and ensure the necessary legal and emotional support.
This case adds to a series of events that have led the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen support and consular assistance measures for Colombian citizens facing emergency situations abroad. Despite diplomatic efforts and collaboration with Mexican authorities, the violence affecting the border region remains a constant concern, especially for migrants who, in search of better opportunities, face an increasingly dangerous environment.
The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced that it will be reporting promptly on any significant developments in the situation. It also reiterated that it is keeping consular contact lines open so that Colombians in Mexico can report situations of risk or request assistance.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by migrants in Mexico, especially those seeking to cross the border into the United States. Colombian authorities urged their citizens to be alert and seek adequate protection, stressing that the safety and well-being of Colombians abroad remain a priority for the Government.
Source: infobae
