Six Suspects Arrested in Connection with 2021 Migrant Tragedy

On December 9, 2021, a truck carrying 160 migrants overturned, resulting in significant casualties, particularly among Guatemalans. Following a comprehensive investigation, recent arrests were made to hold those responsible accountable, marking a critical step in tackling human trafficking.

In a significant enforcement action, six individuals—five in Guatemala and one in Texas—have been arrested in connection with a tragic truck accident in Mexico that resulted in over 50 migrant fatalities. This incident, which took place on December 9, 2021, involved a truck transporting at least 160 migrants that overturned near Tuxtla Gutiérrez, in the Chiapas state of southern Mexico. Authorities indicated that excessive speed was a factor as the vehicle veered off the road and crashed, leading to massive casualties.

The arrests were made on the three-year anniversary of this catastrophic event, which predominantly affected Guatemalan nationals. According to the U.S. Justice Department, four suspects were apprehended in Guatemala after a coordinated operation initiated at the request of the U.S. law enforcement. The individuals taken into custody were identified as Tomas Quino Canil, Alberto Marcario Chitic, Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino, and Josefa Quino Canil De Zavala.

In a parallel investigation, Jorge Agapito Ventura was arrested in Cleveland, Texas. A sixth suspect's identity remains undisclosed in the unsealed indictment from the Southern District of Texas. All named individuals face charges of conspiracy involving the smuggling of undocumented migrants into the United States, as well as placing these individuals in peril, leading to serious injuries and fatalities.

The recent actions underscore a broader commitment to dismantling human trafficking networks responsible for such tragedies and signifies a collaborative effort between U.S. and Guatemalan authorities to enhance regional safety for migrants.