Several thousand migrants from Haiti, South America and Central America set off from southern Mexico headed north on Saturday, clashing with law enforcement trying to hold the caravan back.

Some people among the latest mass movement of migrants trying to pass north through Mexico said they hoped to eventually reach the US&nbsp;border, where the number of migrants trying to gain entry was already hitting new records.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-border-arrests-reach-record-highs-reveals-report-423367">US-Mexico border: Arrests reach record highs, reveals report</a>

Some 3,000 people, including families with young children, began trekking on foot on Saturday from the city of Tapachula near the Guatemala border toward Mexico's capital.

One of the caravan's organizers, Irineo Mujica, said he was leading the group to Mexico City in protest of the lack of government assistance in the south, where officials have attempted to contain thousands of migrants, and to demand legal documents that would let migrants move freely in the country.

A highway checkpoint in Tapachula with some 400 law enforcement officers aimed to block their path, but many migrants managed to break past. A Reuters video showed people carrying backpacks and with children on their shoulders pushing through a cluster of officers in anti-riot gear who attempted to contain the crowd.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-travel-blogger-killed-in-mexico-gang-shootout-423400">Indian travel blogger killed in Mexico gang shootout</a>

One family, including a woman and small children, were knocked to the ground in the crush of people, their belongings scattering.

Some migrants who attempted to leave Tapachula in September to head north were subject to brutal treatment by Mexican officials, and the government's National Migration Institute condemned incidents of violence captured on video.

US&nbsp;authorities arrested more than 1.7 million migrants at the US-Mexico border this fiscal year, the most ever recorded.

Several thousand migrants from Haiti, South America and Central America set off from southern Mexico headed north on Saturday, clashing with law enforcement trying to hold the caravan back.

Several thousand migrants from Haiti, South America and Central America set off from southern Mexico headed north on Saturday, clashing with law enforcement trying to hold the caravan back. Some people among the latest mass movement of migrants trying to pass north through Mexico said they hoped to eventually reach the US border, where the number of migrants trying to gain entry was already hitting new records. Also Read | US-Mexico border: Arrests reach record highs, reveals report Some 3,000 people, including families with young children, began trekking on foot on Saturday from the city of Tapachula near the Guatemala border toward Mexico's capital. One of the caravan's organizers, Irineo Mujica, said he was leading the group to Mexico City in protest of the lack of government assistance in the south, where officials have attempted to contain thousands of migrants, and to demand legal documents that would let migrants move freely in the country. A highway checkpoint in Tapachula with some 400 law enforcement officers aimed to block their path, but many migrants managed to break past. A Reuters video showed people carrying backpacks and with children on their shoulders pushing through a cluster of officers in anti-riot gear who attempted to contain the crowd. Also Read | Indian travel blogger killed in Mexico gang shootout One family, including a woman and small children, were knocked to the ground in the crush of people, their belongings scattering. Some migrants who attempted to leave Tapachula in September to head north were subject to brutal treatment by Mexican officials, and the government's National Migration Institute condemned incidents of violence captured on video. US authorities arrested more than 1.7 million migrants at the US-Mexico border this fiscal year, the most ever recorded.

New migrant caravan in Mexico pushes past blockade to head north

Guatemalan security forces on Monday (January 18) cleared a road of hundreds of people in a mostly Honduran migrant caravan that had camped out overnight when authorities barred it from advancing toward the United States.

Migrant children wave white flags at Guatemala border after violent showdown with caravan

Guatemalan authorities have reportedly escalated efforts to stop the thousands of Hondurans, travelling in a migrant caravan bound for the United States.

Over 8,000 migrants have entered Guatemala since Friday, according to the immigration authority, seeking to escape poverty, unemployment, gang and drug violence and the aftermath of two devastating hurricanes in November.

Several videos showed Guatemalan security forces clashing with a group of hundreds of migrants who managed to break through a police blockade at the village of Vado Hondo, near Chiquimula in eastern Guatemala.

Between Friday and Saturday, Guatemala had sent back almost 1,000 migrants entering from Honduras, the government said, as the caravan moved towards Mexico.

The caravan is likely to come under more pressure in Mexico.&nbsp;

Mexico's migration accord with the United States still holds, so the caravan would be dispersed. Also, on Saturday evening, the Mexican foreign ministry pressed local authorities to halt the caravan's progress, pointing to the need to contain the spread of COVID-19.

In a statement, the ministry praised the Guatemalan government for acting in a "firm and responsible" manner toward migrants that had "violated (Guatemala's) sovereignty" and urged Honduras to prevent further movements of people.

Mexican and Central American authorities have coordinated security and public health measures in a bid to deter mass movements of people across the region, deploying thousands of security forces.

Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico deployed thousands of soldiers and riot police aimed at blocking the migrants' passage. But the caravan has grown considerably over the last 24 hours, with members citing a spiraling crisis of hunger and homelessness in Honduras as their reasons for joining.

The first migrant caravan of the year comes less than a week before US President-elect Joe Biden takes office. He has promised a more humane approach to migration, in contrast to outgoing President Donald Trump's hardline policies.

Biden has promised "a fair and humane immigration system" and pledged aid to tackle the root causes of poverty and violence that drive Central Americans to the United States.

(with inputs)

Guatemalan authorities have reportedly escalated efforts to stop the thousands of Hondurans, travelling in a migrant caravan bound for the United States. Over 8,000 migrants have entered Guatemala since Friday, according to the immigration authority, seeking to escape poverty, unemployment, gang and drug violence and the aftermath of two devastating hurricanes in November.

Guatemalan authorities have reportedly escalated efforts to stop the thousands of Hondurans, travelling in a migrant caravan bound for the United States. Over 8,000 migrants have entered Guatemala since Friday, according to the immigration authority, seeking to escape poverty, unemployment, gang and drug violence and the aftermath of two devastating hurricanes in November. Several videos showed Guatemalan security forces clashing with a group of hundreds of migrants who managed to break through a police blockade at the village of Vado Hondo, near Chiquimula in eastern Guatemala. Between Friday and Saturday, Guatemala had sent back almost 1,000 migrants entering from Honduras, the government said, as the caravan moved towards Mexico. The caravan is likely to come under more pressure in Mexico. Mexico's migration accord with the United States still holds, so the caravan would be dispersed. Also, on Saturday evening, the Mexican foreign ministry pressed local authorities to halt the caravan's progress, pointing to the need to contain the spread of COVID-19. In a statement, the ministry praised the Guatemalan government for acting in a "firm and responsible" manner toward migrants that had "violated (Guatemala's) sovereignty" and urged Honduras to prevent further movements of people. Mexican and Central American authorities have coordinated security and public health measures in a bid to deter mass movements of people across the region, deploying thousands of security forces. Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico deployed thousands of soldiers and riot police aimed at blocking the migrants' passage. But the caravan has grown considerably over the last 24 hours, with members citing a spiraling crisis of hunger and homelessness in Honduras as their reasons for joining. The first migrant caravan of the year comes less than a week before US President-elect Joe Biden takes office. He has promised a more humane approach to migration, in contrast to outgoing President Donald Trump's hardline policies. Biden has promised "a fair and humane immigration system" and pledged aid to tackle the root causes of poverty and violence that drive Central Americans to the United States. (with inputs)

Guatemala cracks down on migrant caravan bound for US

Caravan sales have surged in Turkey as Turks gear up for summer season overshadowed by the coronavirus outbreak, CEO of Basoglu Caravan, a leading caravan manufacturer, said.

50% jump in caravans sales since March in Turkey

Central American migrants entered Mexico from Guatemala in small groups on Saturday after brief clashes earlier in the day when dozens of people tried to force their way across the border and were pushed back by Mexican security forces.President Donald Trump has threatened to hurt Mexico and Central American countries economically if they allow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-troops-block-us-bound-caravan-travelers-275151">large groups</a> to reach the US&nbsp;border. The latest exodus from Honduras has been accompanied by US&nbsp;border agents.

<img alt="Closed border" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dc668e25-1fc6-48c7-9e5f-72757fc1b663" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_46.jpg" /> 
[ Closed points of entry at the Mexican border cause great distress (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Mexican security officials closed the border at the crossing between Tecun Uman, Guatemala and Ciudad Hidalgo, Mexico, after the morning scuffles. But once order was restored, Mexico began letting in groups of around 20 at a time.

Mexico has offered migrants work in the south, but those who do not accept it or seek asylum <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-the-us-mexican-border-migrants-give-up-hope-of-crossing-269434">will not be issued safe conduct</a> passes to the United States, the interior ministry said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-migrant-policy-sends-thousands-of-children-including-hundreds-of-babies-back-to-mexico-255315">US migrant policy sends thousands of children including hundreds of babies back to Mexico</a>

<img alt="Crowd of migrants gather at the border" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc8f451b-02e1-4f94-8e01-0d19c5014f8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_53.jpg" /> 
[Migrants at the Guatemala-Mexico&nbsp;border seeking asylum (Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Guatemalan authorities say some 4,000 people have entered the country since Wednesday, the biggest surge since Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador signed accords with the United States that increase pressure on them to deal with migrants.

Many of the migrants are seeking to escape poverty, violence or other social problems in Central America. However, while a few have expressed an interest in staying in Mexico, most are eager to take their chances in the United States.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has launched a series of initiatives to create jobs in the poorer south. Still, under his rule, Mexico's economy has significantly under-performed the United States, stagnating through 2019.

Television footage from the morning showed a group of migrants jostling and clashing with members of Mexico's National Guard on the bridge separating Guatemala from Mexico.

Women carrying small children could be seen at the front of the group on the bridge. Guatemala's government later issued a statement saying some people were using children to try to secure entry and offered to repatriate migrants who failed.

Mexican officials have so far controlled the situation more successfully than when a large caravan sought to force its way through at the same crossing in October 2018.

After being kept out, most migrants withdrew to Tecun Uman to await the arrival of the main caravan behind them. About 400 of the migrants who entered Guatemala this week have been sent home, its government said.

Central American migrants entered Mexico from Guatemala in small groups on Saturday after brief clashes earlier in the day when dozens of people tried to force their way across the border and were pushed back by Mexican security forces.

Central American migrants entered Mexico from Guatemala in small groups on Saturday after brief clashes earlier in the day when dozens of people tried to force their way across the border and were pushed back by Mexican security forces.President Donald Trump has threatened to hurt Mexico and Central American countries economically if they allow large groups to reach the US border. The latest exodus from Honduras has been accompanied by US border agents. [ Closed points of entry at the Mexican border cause great distress (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Mexican security officials closed the border at the crossing between Tecun Uman, Guatemala and Ciudad Hidalgo, Mexico, after the morning scuffles. But once order was restored, Mexico began letting in groups of around 20 at a time. Mexico has offered migrants work in the south, but those who do not accept it or seek asylum will not be issued safe conduct passes to the United States, the interior ministry said. Also Read: US migrant policy sends thousands of children including hundreds of babies back to Mexico [Migrants at the Guatemala-Mexico border seeking asylum (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Guatemalan authorities say some 4,000 people have entered the country since Wednesday, the biggest surge since Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador signed accords with the United States that increase pressure on them to deal with migrants. Many of the migrants are seeking to escape poverty, violence or other social problems in Central America. However, while a few have expressed an interest in staying in Mexico, most are eager to take their chances in the United States. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has launched a series of initiatives to create jobs in the poorer south. Still, under his rule, Mexico's economy has significantly under-performed the United States, stagnating through 2019. Television footage from the morning showed a group of migrants jostling and clashing with members of Mexico's National Guard on the bridge separating Guatemala from Mexico. Women carrying small children could be seen at the front of the group on the bridge. Guatemala's government later issued a statement saying some people were using children to try to secure entry and offered to repatriate migrants who failed. Mexican officials have so far controlled the situation more successfully than when a large caravan sought to force its way through at the same crossing in October 2018. After being kept out, most migrants withdrew to Tecun Uman to await the arrival of the main caravan behind them. About 400 of the migrants who entered Guatemala this week have been sent home, its government said.

Migrants enter slowly at Guatemala-Mexico border after scuffles

Hundreds of mostly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hondurans-form-a-new-us-bound-caravan-drawing-fire-from-trump-191110">Honduran migrants</a> entered southern Mexico on Friday, joining around 1,000 other people from Central America who crossed a day earlier and putting to the test Mexico`s vows to guarantee the safe and orderly flow of people.

The cohort crossed the Guatemalan border into Chiapas state before dawn without needing the wrist bands that Mexican officials on Thursday gave migrants to wear until they could register with authorities, several migrants and an official told Reuters.&nbsp;

"The road today was open," said Marco Antonio Cortez, 37, a baker from Honduras travelling with his wife and children, ages 2 and 9. "They didn`t give us bracelets or anything, they just let us pass through Mexico migration."

A migration official at the entry point, who asked not to be named because she was not authorized to speak to media, said that at least 1,000 people crossed from Guatemala into Mexico before dawn, without putting on wrist bands.

Asked why migrants did not receive wrist bands, David Leon, the director of civil protection, said authorities faced a caravan of hundreds of people early in the morning and let them pass rather than risk a confrontation.

The migrant group proceeded on foot alongside cars on a highway, accompanied by federal police officers, arriving at a shelter in the city of Tapachula around midday.

Sitting by the side of the road rubbing cream onto his children`s feet, 40-year-old Honduran migrant Santos Pineda said he and his family entered Mexico easily, and without having to provide documents or wear any wrist bands. The family`s plan was to press on to the United States, he said.

A migration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said those who entered without wrist bands ran the risk of being detained for crossing illegally. 
Around 300 mostly Honduran migrants with wrist bands were still waiting to cross into Mexico on Friday afternoon.

Mexico`s migration institute said the migrants can stay in temporary shelters in Mexico until they receive humanitarian visas allowing them to remain in the country, or they can wait in Guatemala for their document to be ready.

Groups of migrants left El Salvador and Honduras earlier in the week, the latest in a string of caravans of people largely fleeing poverty and violence.&nbsp;

The caravans have inflamed the debate over US immigration policy, with President Donald Trump using the migrants to try to secure backing for his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexican border.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is pursuing a "humanitarian" approach to the problem, vowing to stem the flow of people by finding jobs for the migrants. In exchange, he wants Trump to help spur economic development in the region.

Hundreds of mostly Honduran migrants entered southern Mexico on Friday, joining around 1,000 other people from Central America who crossed a day earlier and putting to the test Mexico`s vows to guarantee the safe and orderly flow of people.

Hundreds of mostly Honduran migrants entered southern Mexico on Friday, joining around 1,000 other people from Central America who crossed a day earlier and putting to the test Mexico`s vows to guarantee the safe and orderly flow of people. The cohort crossed the Guatemalan border into Chiapas state before dawn without needing the wrist bands that Mexican officials on Thursday gave migrants to wear until they could register with authorities, several migrants and an official told Reuters. "The road today was open," said Marco Antonio Cortez, 37, a baker from Honduras travelling with his wife and children, ages 2 and 9. "They didn`t give us bracelets or anything, they just let us pass through Mexico migration." A migration official at the entry point, who asked not to be named because she was not authorized to speak to media, said that at least 1,000 people crossed from Guatemala into Mexico before dawn, without putting on wrist bands. Asked why migrants did not receive wrist bands, David Leon, the director of civil protection, said authorities faced a caravan of hundreds of people early in the morning and let them pass rather than risk a confrontation. The migrant group proceeded on foot alongside cars on a highway, accompanied by federal police officers, arriving at a shelter in the city of Tapachula around midday. Sitting by the side of the road rubbing cream onto his children`s feet, 40-year-old Honduran migrant Santos Pineda said he and his family entered Mexico easily, and without having to provide documents or wear any wrist bands. The family`s plan was to press on to the United States, he said. A migration official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said those who entered without wrist bands ran the risk of being detained for crossing illegally. Around 300 mostly Honduran migrants with wrist bands were still waiting to cross into Mexico on Friday afternoon. Mexico`s migration institute said the migrants can stay in temporary shelters in Mexico until they receive humanitarian visas allowing them to remain in the country, or they can wait in Guatemala for their document to be ready. Groups of migrants left El Salvador and Honduras earlier in the week, the latest in a string of caravans of people largely fleeing poverty and violence. The caravans have inflamed the debate over US immigration policy, with President Donald Trump using the migrants to try to secure backing for his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexican border. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is pursuing a "humanitarian" approach to the problem, vowing to stem the flow of people by finding jobs for the migrants. In exchange, he wants Trump to help spur economic development in the region.

Hundreds of Central American migrants enter Mexico with few checks

A new US-bound caravan of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-caravan-presses-on-towards-us-despite-offer-of-jobs-from-mexico-173922">Honduran migrants</a> grew to nearly 1,000 people as it neared the Guatemalan border on Tuesday, a Honduran official said, while US President Donald Trump seized on news of the group to try to drum up <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-use-emergency-power-to-build-wall-end-shutdown-189577">support for a border wall</a>.

Honduran Deputy Foreign Minister Nelly Jerez told reporters that there were between 800 and 1,000 people travelling together and headed towards the Agua Caliente border crossing into Guatemala.&nbsp;

Central American migrant caravans heading towards the United States have inflamed the debate over US immigration policy, with Trump using the groups to seek backing for his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;

Television footage on Tuesday showed groups of mostly young men, carrying bags of belongings, leaving the notoriously violent Honduran city of San Pedro Sula and flagging down rides to catch up with the caravan that left the same city on Monday.

"I am going to the United States to see if there is an opportunity to work because here in Honduras there is nothing," a 25-year old named Cristian told reporters.

The group will likely face weeks of travel to get to the US border.&nbsp;

Around 2,500 migrants from a previous wave of Central Americans who crossed Mexico have been camping in squalid shelters in the Mexican border city of Tijuana.

Trump has described the migrants as an invading force and sent troops to reinforce the border last year. On Monday, the Pentagon announced it would extend the deployment of around 2,350 troops to the US border through the end of September.&nbsp;

As a partial government shutdown dragged into its 25th day on Tuesday, Trump invoked the new caravan on Twitter to pressure US lawmakers. Democrats have resisted Trump`s insistence that Congress shell out $5.7 billion for wall funding.

"A big new Caravan is heading up to our Southern Border from Honduras," Trump said. "Only a Wall, or Steel Barrier, will keep our Country safe! Stop playing political games and end the Shutdown!" 
&nbsp;

A new US-bound caravan of Honduran migrants grew to nearly 1,000 people as it neared the Guatemalan border on Tuesday, a Honduran official said, while US President Donald Trump seized on news of the group to try to drum up support for a border wall.

A new US-bound caravan of Honduran migrants grew to nearly 1,000 people as it neared the Guatemalan border on Tuesday, a Honduran official said, while US President Donald Trump seized on news of the group to try to drum up support for a border wall. Honduran Deputy Foreign Minister Nelly Jerez told reporters that there were between 800 and 1,000 people travelling together and headed towards the Agua Caliente border crossing into Guatemala. Central American migrant caravans heading towards the United States have inflamed the debate over US immigration policy, with Trump using the groups to seek backing for his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexico border. Television footage on Tuesday showed groups of mostly young men, carrying bags of belongings, leaving the notoriously violent Honduran city of San Pedro Sula and flagging down rides to catch up with the caravan that left the same city on Monday. "I am going to the United States to see if there is an opportunity to work because here in Honduras there is nothing," a 25-year old named Cristian told reporters. The group will likely face weeks of travel to get to the US border. Around 2,500 migrants from a previous wave of Central Americans who crossed Mexico have been camping in squalid shelters in the Mexican border city of Tijuana. Trump has described the migrants as an invading force and sent troops to reinforce the border last year. On Monday, the Pentagon announced it would extend the deployment of around 2,350 troops to the US border through the end of September. As a partial government shutdown dragged into its 25th day on Tuesday, Trump invoked the new caravan on Twitter to pressure US lawmakers. Democrats have resisted Trump`s insistence that Congress shell out $5.7 billion for wall funding. "A big new Caravan is heading up to our Southern Border from Honduras," Trump said. "Only a Wall, or Steel Barrier, will keep our Country safe! Stop playing political games and end the Shutdown!"

US-bound Honduran migrant caravan grows as Trump argues for wall

Several hundred Honduran <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-demands-us-probe-on-use-of-force-against-migrants-188204&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjUofG8x_HfAhWIro8KHVqDBe4QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LCj7WHGU-g13DtHrIrDra">migrants</a> in a new US-bound caravan crossed into Guatemala on Tuesday, as<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-record-long-government-shutdown-could-be-resolved-in-15-minutes-189918&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwibirubx_HfAhUL2o8KHWfvCJ4QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2eiwVWy8P_hAybgiaQRpi0"> US President Donald Trump</a> seized on news of the advancing group to try to build support for a wall along with his country's border with Mexico.

About 200 Hondurans presented documents in the morning to pass through the Agua Caliente border crossing separating the two Central American nations. The group included entire families and young men, plus parents carrying small children.

An additional 350 Hondurans crossed into Guatemalan territory but were being detained by migration officials checking their documents, according to pro-migrant activists travelling with them.

Some migrants ran toward the port of entry where they were met by a large group of Guatemalan police, and nearly 150 were turned away because they lacked proper documents, police said.

"Those who (lack documents) will be turned back," said Alejandra Mena, a spokeswoman for Guatemala's migration authority.

The second group of about 300 Honduran migrants walked along a highway and expected to reach the same border crossing on Tuesday night, activists said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Honduran Deputy Foreign Minister Nelly Jerez told reporters that the caravan at the border numbered between 800 and 1,000 people.&nbsp;

Central American caravans heading toward the United States have inflamed the debate over US immigration policy, with Trump drawing attention to the bedraggled migrants to try to win backing for his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexico border.&nbsp;

As a partial US government shutdown reached its 25th day, Trump invoked the new caravan on Twitter to pressure US lawmakers. Democrats have resisted Trump's insistence that Congress provide $5.7 billion for wall funding.

"A big new Caravan is heading up to our Southern Border from Honduras," Trump tweeted on Tuesday. "Only a Wall, or Steel Barrier, will keep our Country safe! Stop playing political games and end the Shutdown!"

Trump has described the migrants as an invading force and sent troops to reinforce the border last year. On Monday, the Pentagon announced it would extend the deployment of about 2,350 troops to the US border through the end of September.

Television footage on Tuesday showed mainly younger migrants leaving the notoriously violent Honduran city of San Pedro Sula. Some flagged down rides to catch up with the caravan that left the same city on Monday.

"We're asking them to let us cross on our way to Mexico," said Honduran migrant Josue Hernandez ahead of the checkpoint guarded by Guatemalan police.

The group will likely face weeks of travel to get to the US border.&nbsp; 
US Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen said in a post on Twitter that her agency was closely monitoring the new caravan.

"To be clear - participation in a caravan does not grant you a special status or provide you special treatment," she added.

About 2,500 migrants from a previous wave of Central Americans who crossed Mexico have been camping in squalid shelters in the Mexican border city of Tijuana.

Several hundred Honduran migrants in a new US-bound caravan crossed into Guatemala on Tuesday, as US President Donald Trump seized on news of the advancing group to try to build support for a wall along with his country's border with Mexico.

Several hundred Honduran migrants in a new US-bound caravan crossed into Guatemala on Tuesday, as US President Donald Trump seized on news of the advancing group to try to build support for a wall along with his country's border with Mexico. About 200 Hondurans presented documents in the morning to pass through the Agua Caliente border crossing separating the two Central American nations. The group included entire families and young men, plus parents carrying small children. An additional 350 Hondurans crossed into Guatemalan territory but were being detained by migration officials checking their documents, according to pro-migrant activists travelling with them. Some migrants ran toward the port of entry where they were met by a large group of Guatemalan police, and nearly 150 were turned away because they lacked proper documents, police said. "Those who (lack documents) will be turned back," said Alejandra Mena, a spokeswoman for Guatemala's migration authority. The second group of about 300 Honduran migrants walked along a highway and expected to reach the same border crossing on Tuesday night, activists said. Earlier on Tuesday, Honduran Deputy Foreign Minister Nelly Jerez told reporters that the caravan at the border numbered between 800 and 1,000 people. Central American caravans heading toward the United States have inflamed the debate over US immigration policy, with Trump drawing attention to the bedraggled migrants to try to win backing for his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexico border. As a partial US government shutdown reached its 25th day, Trump invoked the new caravan on Twitter to pressure US lawmakers. Democrats have resisted Trump's insistence that Congress provide $5.7 billion for wall funding. "A big new Caravan is heading up to our Southern Border from Honduras," Trump tweeted on Tuesday. "Only a Wall, or Steel Barrier, will keep our Country safe! Stop playing political games and end the Shutdown!" Trump has described the migrants as an invading force and sent troops to reinforce the border last year. On Monday, the Pentagon announced it would extend the deployment of about 2,350 troops to the US border through the end of September. Television footage on Tuesday showed mainly younger migrants leaving the notoriously violent Honduran city of San Pedro Sula. Some flagged down rides to catch up with the caravan that left the same city on Monday. "We're asking them to let us cross on our way to Mexico," said Honduran migrant Josue Hernandez ahead of the checkpoint guarded by Guatemalan police. The group will likely face weeks of travel to get to the US border. US Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen said in a post on Twitter that her agency was closely monitoring the new caravan. "To be clear - participation in a caravan does not grant you a special status or provide you special treatment," she added. About 2,500 migrants from a previous wave of Central Americans who crossed Mexico have been camping in squalid shelters in the Mexican border city of Tijuana.

Watch: US-bound migrant caravan crosses into Guatemala

Hundreds of mostly Central American migrants poured into a new shelter on Friday as bus loads fled a filthy, flooded sports complex on the eve of a presidential inauguration in Mexico that could recast the border crisis with US President Donald Trump.

Earlier in the day, streams of migrants laden with heavy backpacks, tents and blankets, much of it soaking wet, loaded buses leaving their original migrants shelter within sight of the border.

Helicopters swooped down nearby a few times and lines of people formed quickly when bottles of water were passed out. Diapers and milk for children were also distributed.

For those among the at least 6,000 migrants who have descended upon the Mexican border city of Tijuana, just south of San Diego on the US side, the move to a former outdoor concert venue after torrential rains a day earlier reduced the old shelter to a muddy, smelly mess was a welcome relief.

"Here it`s better," said Victor Manuel Argeta.&nbsp;

The 44-year-old native of Usulutan, El Salvador, spoke alongside his wife and two children as he surveyed the limited indoor space while many other caravan migrants set up simple camps in an open square in the middle of the property.

"It`s dry. We have a dry blanket. They gave us mattresses, too," said Argeta.

He said he joined the caravan to find better job prospects in the United States.&nbsp;

Many of the migrants who made the trek to the East Tijuana property, some 7 miles (11 km) from the border, appeared thankful to be out of the muck even if most will sleep on thin mattresses on a cold, hard floor.

Jorge Alberto Lobo, 21, also from El Salvador, was eager to leave the old shelter as he packed up his few belongings.

"I have the dream, I think we all had it, to get to the other side, to the United States," he said, but quickly adding that if he does not make it he will likely stay put in Mexico and look for work.

`RESPECT`

On Saturday, Mexico`s leftist president-elect, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, will take the oath of office in the capital as he seeks to make good on campaign promises to alienate poverty and inequality, in part to help stem the flow of Mexico`s own migrants.

The former mayor of Mexico City has welcomed the caravan migrants in speeches, pledging to offer work visas and even jobs building a major train line he has proposed.

The day before his inauguration, Lopez Obrador was resting with friends at this ranch in southern Chiapas state, near the border with Guatemala, and reaffirmed his support for the migrants.

"Progressive, democratic governments respect migrants, respect the right all of us have as human beings to search out a better life. It`s the most important human right," he said in a video posted on Twitter.

He made a point of reflecting on the history of migrants north of the border.

"The United States is a country that became a powerhouse because of the work, effort and intelligence of migrants," he said.&nbsp;

Trump, conversely, has dubbed the migrants an invading force that must be stopped, even threatening to shut the US border if Mexico does not deport those gathered in Tijuana.

To date, Mexican officials have ignored the threat.

Hundreds of mostly Central American migrants poured into a new shelter on Friday as bus loads fled a filthy, flooded sports complex on the eve of a presidential inauguration in Mexico that could recast the border crisis with US President Donald Trump.

Hundreds of mostly Central American migrants poured into a new shelter on Friday as bus loads fled a filthy, flooded sports complex on the eve of a presidential inauguration in Mexico that could recast the border crisis with US President Donald Trump. Earlier in the day, streams of migrants laden with heavy backpacks, tents and blankets, much of it soaking wet, loaded buses leaving their original migrants shelter within sight of the border. Helicopters swooped down nearby a few times and lines of people formed quickly when bottles of water were passed out. Diapers and milk for children were also distributed. For those among the at least 6,000 migrants who have descended upon the Mexican border city of Tijuana, just south of San Diego on the US side, the move to a former outdoor concert venue after torrential rains a day earlier reduced the old shelter to a muddy, smelly mess was a welcome relief. "Here it`s better," said Victor Manuel Argeta. The 44-year-old native of Usulutan, El Salvador, spoke alongside his wife and two children as he surveyed the limited indoor space while many other caravan migrants set up simple camps in an open square in the middle of the property. "It`s dry. We have a dry blanket. They gave us mattresses, too," said Argeta. He said he joined the caravan to find better job prospects in the United States. Many of the migrants who made the trek to the East Tijuana property, some 7 miles (11 km) from the border, appeared thankful to be out of the muck even if most will sleep on thin mattresses on a cold, hard floor. Jorge Alberto Lobo, 21, also from El Salvador, was eager to leave the old shelter as he packed up his few belongings. "I have the dream, I think we all had it, to get to the other side, to the United States," he said, but quickly adding that if he does not make it he will likely stay put in Mexico and look for work. `RESPECT` On Saturday, Mexico`s leftist president-elect, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, will take the oath of office in the capital as he seeks to make good on campaign promises to alienate poverty and inequality, in part to help stem the flow of Mexico`s own migrants. The former mayor of Mexico City has welcomed the caravan migrants in speeches, pledging to offer work visas and even jobs building a major train line he has proposed. The day before his inauguration, Lopez Obrador was resting with friends at this ranch in southern Chiapas state, near the border with Guatemala, and reaffirmed his support for the migrants. "Progressive, democratic governments respect migrants, respect the right all of us have as human beings to search out a better life. It`s the most important human right," he said in a video posted on Twitter. He made a point of reflecting on the history of migrants north of the border. "The United States is a country that became a powerhouse because of the work, effort and intelligence of migrants," he said. Trump, conversely, has dubbed the migrants an invading force that must be stopped, even threatening to shut the US border if Mexico does not deport those gathered in Tijuana. To date, Mexican officials have ignored the threat.

Caravan migrants in Mexico fill new border shelter after rains force exodus

Ten Central American women taking part in the migrant caravan camped on the US-Mexican border said Thursday they were starting a hunger strike to pressure American authorities to let them apply for asylum.

"Since no one is listening to us, we've decided as a women's movement... to launch a hunger strike," said Claudia Miranda of Honduras at an improvised press conference in the border city of Tijuana.

More than 6,000 migrants who traveled to the northern Mexican city by caravan are camped out hoping to apply for asylum or sneak into the United States, fleeing poverty and violence in their home countries.

US President Donald Trump, who has called the caravan an "invasion" full of "hardened criminals" and "thugs," is seeking to overhaul asylum policy to keep applicants out pending approval.

Draped in white flags, the women tried to picket in front of the immigration offices at the border, but were blocked by a heavy police contingent.

The women are also calling on Mexican migration authorities to grant speedy humanitarian visas to migrants who want to remain in Mexico.

They did not say how long they planned to maintain their hunger strike.

After walking and hitch-hiking more than 4,000 kilometers (2,500 miles) to the US southern border, some 500 migrants tried to breach it on Sunday. They were forced back by US Border Patrol agents, who fired tear gas and rubber bullets. 
&nbsp;

Ten Central American women taking part in the migrant caravan camped on the US-Mexican border said Thursday they were starting a hunger strike to pressure American authorities to let them apply for asylum.

Ten Central American women taking part in the migrant caravan camped on the US-Mexican border said Thursday they were starting a hunger strike to pressure American authorities to let them apply for asylum. "Since no one is listening to us, we've decided as a women's movement... to launch a hunger strike," said Claudia Miranda of Honduras at an improvised press conference in the border city of Tijuana. More than 6,000 migrants who traveled to the northern Mexican city by caravan are camped out hoping to apply for asylum or sneak into the United States, fleeing poverty and violence in their home countries. US President Donald Trump, who has called the caravan an "invasion" full of "hardened criminals" and "thugs," is seeking to overhaul asylum policy to keep applicants out pending approval. Draped in white flags, the women tried to picket in front of the immigration offices at the border, but were blocked by a heavy police contingent. The women are also calling on Mexican migration authorities to grant speedy humanitarian visas to migrants who want to remain in Mexico. They did not say how long they planned to maintain their hunger strike. After walking and hitch-hiking more than 4,000 kilometers (2,500 miles) to the US southern border, some 500 migrants tried to breach it on Sunday. They were forced back by US Border Patrol agents, who fired tear gas and rubber bullets.

Caravan migrants declare hunger strike to pressure US

Former Honduran policeman Ivan says he moved homes so many times to escape the street gangs that terrorize his Central American country that he lost count. Fearful his sons would have to join the gangs or be killed, he eventually joined thousands of Hondurans fleeing to the United States.&nbsp;

The 45-year-old, who asked to be identified only by his first name, is journeying through Mexico in a caravan of several thousand mostly Honduran migrants who are fleeing violence and poverty for a better life in the United States.

US President Donald Trump has declared the caravans an "invasion," and has sent some 5,800 troops to "harden" the border, including with barbed wire.

Ivan, fearful to tell his story, is watchful for gang tattoos or slang that might suggest fellow migrants were associated with his persecutors back home.&nbsp; 
The former policemen said the final straw in Honduras came when gang members put a gun to his 15-year-old son Yostin`s head.

They wanted Yostin and younger brother Julio, 13, to join them, threatening death if they refused, Ivan said during a break in the caravan`s northward journey at a temporary camp in a Mexico City stadium.

So when a caravan set off on October 13 from the crime-racked Honduran city of San Pedro Sula, where the family was hiding with friends, they never hesitated. Reuters was not able to independently verify their story.&nbsp;

However, their motives echo others in the caravan and are a reminder of the influence the gangs called `maras` wield across El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala despite almost 20 years of efforts to crush them.

Homicide rates have fallen in Honduras since 2016, as a consequence of initiatives that include prison reform, the creation of a specialized anti-gang security force, and increased resources for law enforcement.

In 2017 there were 42 murders per 100,000 residents in Honduras, compared to 57 per 100,000 in the prior year, according to statistics from the government and the World Bank.&nbsp;

Still, the murder rate in Honduras remains one of the highest in the world. Some international aid organizations such as the Norwegian Refugee Council operate in the country with the same precautions as in war zones, and say inhabitants face the same dangers.&nbsp;

At the US&nbsp;border barbed wire laid by soldiers deployed by Trump awaits the caravan to dissuade the migrants from crossing illegally. New rules curtailing asylum claims also increase the chances they will be deported.

A return home terrifies many, including Ivan. Removed from his job of 27 years in a police purge two years ago, he says he fears death in Honduras.&nbsp;

The purge removed more than 4,000 officers, or close to a third of what is currently a 14,000 strong force, according to Commissioner Jair Meza, spokesperson for the Honduran Security Ministry.

Ivan says the purge removed good police as well as bad while leaving the former officers exposed to revenge attacks from gangs they once pursued.

"They know us and so they hunt us down," he said.

Meza said police who were removed were subject to polygraph tests and background checks before being selected. Age and performance were other considerations.

RANDOM VIOLENCE

In Honduras, violence can strike at any time.&nbsp;

On the cocaine transit corridor to the nearby port of Puerto Cortes, San Pedro Sula was for years one of the world`s most dangerous cities. Its morgue was so full of corpses that locals said their smell permeated the streets.

On a night in late July, a family sat on the side of a highway in San Pedro Sula, a few feet from a crime scene.

Fransisca Sislavas waited stone-faced between her son, Rony, 2, and her daughter, Brittany, 4. The girl`s ankle was splattered with her father`s blood.&nbsp; Minutes earlier, Sislavas had been sitting beside her partner and their children in a taxi. She struggled to explain his death. "I don`t know. Why? How? I just don`t know," she said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
"BETRAYED BY LIFE"

For some Hondurans who fail in their pursuit of the American Dream, deportation can mean an entrance into gang life.

Henry Fernando, an active member of MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, said he walked more than 3,000 miles and almost died in the desert crossing from Mexico to find his mother, who had left him for Virginia.

Quickly deported, MS-13 was the only home he found, he said, recalling the girlfriends, or "jainas", that leaders offered, serving as payment for the marijuana and crack cocaine he sold. Reuters was not able to independently verify his story.&nbsp;

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement said it was unable to trace Fernando`s deportation based on the information Reuters was able to provide. 
Nine years later, now 28, he has a young son, and dreams of leaving the gang. His home, visited by Reuters, was a rented room barely wider than his mattress, up a rickety ladder in the middle of a pigsty. He had moved up the MS-13 ranks, but remains mired in poverty.

Fifteen people interviewed by Reuters, either active in the gangs or in stages of reforming, described only two ways out: join an Evangelical church or death.&nbsp;

All of them said they joined the gangs as boys from broken homes in broken neighborhoods.

Ramon Bladimir Funes, 35, a member of Barrio-18 has served nearly three years in Puerto Cortes jail for robbery in jail. The overcrowded, lurid-green facility lies near the northern Honduran port.

Among the jail`s older inmates, Funes had joined Barrio-18 at 9 years old, after his mother abandoned him for the United States, he said. He only met his father at 17.

Signs of his gang years were tattooed on his arms and across his chest. Down the bridge of his nose were three tears, gang code for lost loved ones. Three of Funes` sons were killed by Barrio 18`s arch-rival MS-13.&nbsp;

"You aspire to higher ideas and a higher mindset, but you`re stuck in the problems of the street," said Funes, who regrets joining Barrio 18. "And weapons, all types, are so easy to find."&nbsp;

Former Honduran policeman Ivan says he moved homes so many times to escape the street gangs that terrorize his Central American country that he lost count. Fearful his sons would have to join the gangs or be killed, he eventually joined thousands of Hondurans fleeing to the United States.

Former Honduran policeman Ivan says he moved homes so many times to escape the street gangs that terrorize his Central American country that he lost count. Fearful his sons would have to join the gangs or be killed, he eventually joined thousands of Hondurans fleeing to the United States. The 45-year-old, who asked to be identified only by his first name, is journeying through Mexico in a caravan of several thousand mostly Honduran migrants who are fleeing violence and poverty for a better life in the United States. US President Donald Trump has declared the caravans an "invasion," and has sent some 5,800 troops to "harden" the border, including with barbed wire. Ivan, fearful to tell his story, is watchful for gang tattoos or slang that might suggest fellow migrants were associated with his persecutors back home. The former policemen said the final straw in Honduras came when gang members put a gun to his 15-year-old son Yostin`s head. They wanted Yostin and younger brother Julio, 13, to join them, threatening death if they refused, Ivan said during a break in the caravan`s northward journey at a temporary camp in a Mexico City stadium. So when a caravan set off on October 13 from the crime-racked Honduran city of San Pedro Sula, where the family was hiding with friends, they never hesitated. Reuters was not able to independently verify their story. However, their motives echo others in the caravan and are a reminder of the influence the gangs called `maras` wield across El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala despite almost 20 years of efforts to crush them. Homicide rates have fallen in Honduras since 2016, as a consequence of initiatives that include prison reform, the creation of a specialized anti-gang security force, and increased resources for law enforcement. In 2017 there were 42 murders per 100,000 residents in Honduras, compared to 57 per 100,000 in the prior year, according to statistics from the government and the World Bank. Still, the murder rate in Honduras remains one of the highest in the world. Some international aid organizations such as the Norwegian Refugee Council operate in the country with the same precautions as in war zones, and say inhabitants face the same dangers. At the US border barbed wire laid by soldiers deployed by Trump awaits the caravan to dissuade the migrants from crossing illegally. New rules curtailing asylum claims also increase the chances they will be deported. A return home terrifies many, including Ivan. Removed from his job of 27 years in a police purge two years ago, he says he fears death in Honduras. The purge removed more than 4,000 officers, or close to a third of what is currently a 14,000 strong force, according to Commissioner Jair Meza, spokesperson for the Honduran Security Ministry. Ivan says the purge removed good police as well as bad while leaving the former officers exposed to revenge attacks from gangs they once pursued. "They know us and so they hunt us down," he said. Meza said police who were removed were subject to polygraph tests and background checks before being selected. Age and performance were other considerations. RANDOM VIOLENCE In Honduras, violence can strike at any time. On the cocaine transit corridor to the nearby port of Puerto Cortes, San Pedro Sula was for years one of the world`s most dangerous cities. Its morgue was so full of corpses that locals said their smell permeated the streets. On a night in late July, a family sat on the side of a highway in San Pedro Sula, a few feet from a crime scene. Fransisca Sislavas waited stone-faced between her son, Rony, 2, and her daughter, Brittany, 4. The girl`s ankle was splattered with her father`s blood. Minutes earlier, Sislavas had been sitting beside her partner and their children in a taxi. She struggled to explain his death. "I don`t know. Why? How? I just don`t know," she said. "BETRAYED BY LIFE" For some Hondurans who fail in their pursuit of the American Dream, deportation can mean an entrance into gang life. Henry Fernando, an active member of MS-13, also known as Mara Salvatrucha, said he walked more than 3,000 miles and almost died in the desert crossing from Mexico to find his mother, who had left him for Virginia. Quickly deported, MS-13 was the only home he found, he said, recalling the girlfriends, or "jainas", that leaders offered, serving as payment for the marijuana and crack cocaine he sold. Reuters was not able to independently verify his story. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement said it was unable to trace Fernando`s deportation based on the information Reuters was able to provide. Nine years later, now 28, he has a young son, and dreams of leaving the gang. His home, visited by Reuters, was a rented room barely wider than his mattress, up a rickety ladder in the middle of a pigsty. He had moved up the MS-13 ranks, but remains mired in poverty. Fifteen people interviewed by Reuters, either active in the gangs or in stages of reforming, described only two ways out: join an Evangelical church or death. All of them said they joined the gangs as boys from broken homes in broken neighborhoods. Ramon Bladimir Funes, 35, a member of Barrio-18 has served nearly three years in Puerto Cortes jail for robbery in jail. The overcrowded, lurid-green facility lies near the northern Honduran port. Among the jail`s older inmates, Funes had joined Barrio-18 at 9 years old, after his mother abandoned him for the United States, he said. He only met his father at 17. Signs of his gang years were tattooed on his arms and across his chest. Down the bridge of his nose were three tears, gang code for lost loved ones. Three of Funes` sons were killed by Barrio 18`s arch-rival MS-13. "You aspire to higher ideas and a higher mindset, but you`re stuck in the problems of the street," said Funes, who regrets joining Barrio 18. "And weapons, all types, are so easy to find."

Terror of gang violence drives migrant caravans northward

As US defence<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/central-american-caravan-to-resume-trip-after-rest-176408"> secretary Jim Mattis visited troops</a> at the&nbsp;border, the so-called migrant caravan comprising of hundreds of central Americans arrived at the US southern border on Thursday.&nbsp;

The migrants reached in buses in the northern city of Tijuana at the California border with Mexico as US patrol guards kept them away from entering the US. Tijuana's director of Migrant Assistance, Cesar Palencia, said the migrants would be provided with shelter.

The caravan had left San Pedro Sula, Honduras last month and has covered over 1,500 kilometres.

Meanwhile, defense secretary Jim Mattis informed that at least 5,900 troops are now at the border to prevent migrant crossing with several thousands more troops due to arrive.

"I think that it's very clear that support to border police or Border Patrol is necessary right now," Mattis said as he inspected troops in Texas.

Last week, President Trump had suspended granting asylum to migrants who cross the US-Mexico border illegally.

Reports said the full caravan of some 5,000 migrants could be at the US border by Friday with the migrant numbers swelling each day.

During the midterm election campaign, President Trump had called those in the caravan as "hardened criminals" and "unknown Middle Easterners" who were about to "assault" the United States turning it into an election issue.

Navojoa located over 1,000 kilometres from Tijuana, is the where migrants plan to cross the border.

Mattis, however, warned that the US military was needed to provide vital support to Border patrol agents ahead of the arrival of the so-called caravan.

"We determined that the mission was absolutely legal," Mattis said.&nbsp;

"It's obviously a moral and ethical mission to support our border patrolmen," the US defence secretary added. 
&nbsp;

As US defence secretary Jim Mattis visited troops at the border, the so-called migrant caravan comprising of hundreds of central Americans arrived at the US southern border on Thursday.

As US defence secretary Jim Mattis visited troops at the border, the so-called migrant caravan comprising of hundreds of central Americans arrived at the US southern border on Thursday. The migrants reached in buses in the northern city of Tijuana at the California border with Mexico as US patrol guards kept them away from entering the US. Tijuana's director of Migrant Assistance, Cesar Palencia, said the migrants would be provided with shelter. The caravan had left San Pedro Sula, Honduras last month and has covered over 1,500 kilometres. Meanwhile, defense secretary Jim Mattis informed that at least 5,900 troops are now at the border to prevent migrant crossing with several thousands more troops due to arrive. "I think that it's very clear that support to border police or Border Patrol is necessary right now," Mattis said as he inspected troops in Texas. Last week, President Trump had suspended granting asylum to migrants who cross the US-Mexico border illegally. Reports said the full caravan of some 5,000 migrants could be at the US border by Friday with the migrant numbers swelling each day. During the midterm election campaign, President Trump had called those in the caravan as "hardened criminals" and "unknown Middle Easterners" who were about to "assault" the United States turning it into an election issue. Navojoa located over 1,000 kilometres from Tijuana, is the where migrants plan to cross the border. Mattis, however, warned that the US military was needed to provide vital support to Border patrol agents ahead of the arrival of the so-called caravan. "We determined that the mission was absolutely legal," Mattis said. "It's obviously a moral and ethical mission to support our border patrolmen," the US defence secretary added.

Troops on alert as central American 'migrant caravan' reaches US border

Eight women and children from a Central American caravan entered US&nbspterritory to seek asylum on Monday, sparking celebrations among companions after a month-long trail across Mexico that led President Donald Trump to demand changes in the law.

Carrying scant possessions, the asylum seekers walked through a door into the San Ysidro port of entry on the bidding of a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer.

The first to enter was part of a small group from the caravan who Mexican officials let walk over a pedestrian bridge on Sunday and who have been camped at the San Ysidro gate ever since when the CBP said the facility between Tijuana and San Diego was saturated.

A larger group of about 150 people has not been let onto the bridge and was preparing for a second night sleeping in an open plaza on the Mexican side. Hoping they would also be let through to make their case, members of the group pumped fists and cheered when they heard some of their companions had crossed.

The caravan has been in the spotlight ever since it began a more than 2,000-mile (3,200 km) journey from southern Mexico, gathering 1,500 people at one point, to the fury of Trump, who demanded that officials do not let such groups into the country.

His administration's hands are tied, however, by international rules obliging the United States to accept asylum applications.

Despite Trump's threats, earlier on Monday Vice President Mike Pence admitted the caravan members would be processed in line with the law.

Fleeing what they say are death threats, extortion and violence in neighbourhoods controlled by the powerful Mara street gangs, once in the United States the asylum seekers must convince officials they have reason to fear to return home.

The majority of asylum claims by Central Americans are ultimately unsuccessful, resulting in detention and deportation. The Trump administration says many claims are fake, aided by legal loopholes.

"We began processing undocumented arrivals again on Monday, a CBP spokeswoman said, adding that the number of individuals they could process in a day varied and that the other asylum seekers may have to wait in Mexico until more space was freed.

"As in the past when we’ve had to limit the number of people we can bring in for processing at a given time, we expect that this will be a temporary situation," she said.

By the time it reached the US&nbspborder the caravan had dwindled to a few hundred people but was still large enough to prompt comments from Trump and Pence on Monday.

Pence said US&nbsplaws needed to change to remove "incentives" for migrants and he accused immigration activists of encouraging members of the caravan into leaving their homes.

"These families, often women with small children, are victims, they are victims of open border advocates," Pence said during an inspection of new border fencing a few hours drives from San Diego.

Only two of the dozens of people in the caravan who spoke to Reuters over the past month said they were aware of it before they left home. Those two said the caravan's existence did not influence their decisions to flee what they described as appalling conditions.

Elated

Shaken and elated by the sudden turn of events, the remaining 15 women and children at the gate waited to see if the officer returned to let more through. Ayde Hernandez, from Guatemala, beamed and said she hoped she was next.

An immigration lawyer advising the group cried with relief as one boy passed through.

"I'm a lawyer, I'm not supposed to cry, (but) I've been with that boy for two days," she said, declining to give her name.

Asked by Mexican authorities to take down a makeshift tarpaulin roofing as night fell, they huddled close against the deepening cold to talk of what would come next, their children nodding asleep.

Until now, waiting near the gate for the past 24 hours had been the worst part of the journey, said Luisa Cruz, 44, from Nicaragua, which she had fled with her daughter after a case of domestic violence.

"No way to go to the bathroom, and the hunger, and the cold," she croaked, through a sore throat.

Asylum seekers must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution at home, most often from a state entity. Central Americans fare badly in such claims because the state is rarely seen as directly responsible for the life-threatening situations they leave behind.

US&nbspborder authorities say some people associated with the caravan were caught trying to slip through the border fence.

On Monday, Trump railed against a system that may see some of the caravan members freed in the United States until their cases are resolved because a shortage of beds at detention centres and rules that limit how long women with children can be held.

"Catch and release is ridiculous. If they touch our property, if they touch our country, essentially you catch them and you release them into our country. That's not acceptable to anybody, so we need a change in the law," he said.

Despite Trump's threats, earlier on Monday Vice President Mike Pence admitted the caravan members would be processed in line with the law

Eight women and children from a Central American caravan entered US&nbspterritory to seek asylum on Monday, sparking celebrations among companions after a month-long trail across Mexico that led President Donald Trump to demand changes in the law. Carrying scant possessions, the asylum seekers walked through a door into the San Ysidro port of entry on the bidding of a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer. The first to enter was part of a small group from the caravan who Mexican officials let walk over a pedestrian bridge on Sunday and who have been camped at the San Ysidro gate ever since when the CBP said the facility between Tijuana and San Diego was saturated. A larger group of about 150 people has not been let onto the bridge and was preparing for a second night sleeping in an open plaza on the Mexican side. Hoping they would also be let through to make their case, members of the group pumped fists and cheered when they heard some of their companions had crossed. The caravan has been in the spotlight ever since it began a more than 2,000-mile (3,200 km) journey from southern Mexico, gathering 1,500 people at one point, to the fury of Trump, who demanded that officials do not let such groups into the country. His administration's hands are tied, however, by international rules obliging the United States to accept asylum applications. Despite Trump's threats, earlier on Monday Vice President Mike Pence admitted the caravan members would be processed in line with the law. Fleeing what they say are death threats, extortion and violence in neighbourhoods controlled by the powerful Mara street gangs, once in the United States the asylum seekers must convince officials they have reason to fear to return home. The majority of asylum claims by Central Americans are ultimately unsuccessful, resulting in detention and deportation. The Trump administration says many claims are fake, aided by legal loopholes. "We began processing undocumented arrivals again on Monday, a CBP spokeswoman said, adding that the number of individuals they could process in a day varied and that the other asylum seekers may have to wait in Mexico until more space was freed. "As in the past when we’ve had to limit the number of people we can bring in for processing at a given time, we expect that this will be a temporary situation," she said. By the time it reached the US&nbspborder the caravan had dwindled to a few hundred people but was still large enough to prompt comments from Trump and Pence on Monday. Pence said US&nbsplaws needed to change to remove "incentives" for migrants and he accused immigration activists of encouraging members of the caravan into leaving their homes. "These families, often women with small children, are victims, they are victims of open border advocates," Pence said during an inspection of new border fencing a few hours drives from San Diego. Only two of the dozens of people in the caravan who spoke to Reuters over the past month said they were aware of it before they left home. Those two said the caravan's existence did not influence their decisions to flee what they described as appalling conditions. Elated Shaken and elated by the sudden turn of events, the remaining 15 women and children at the gate waited to see if the officer returned to let more through. Ayde Hernandez, from Guatemala, beamed and said she hoped she was next. An immigration lawyer advising the group cried with relief as one boy passed through. "I'm a lawyer, I'm not supposed to cry, (but) I've been with that boy for two days," she said, declining to give her name. Asked by Mexican authorities to take down a makeshift tarpaulin roofing as night fell, they huddled close against the deepening cold to talk of what would come next, their children nodding asleep. Until now, waiting near the gate for the past 24 hours had been the worst part of the journey, said Luisa Cruz, 44, from Nicaragua, which she had fled with her daughter after a case of domestic violence. "No way to go to the bathroom, and the hunger, and the cold," she croaked, through a sore throat. Asylum seekers must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution at home, most often from a state entity. Central Americans fare badly in such claims because the state is rarely seen as directly responsible for the life-threatening situations they leave behind. US&nbspborder authorities say some people associated with the caravan were caught trying to slip through the border fence. On Monday, Trump railed against a system that may see some of the caravan members freed in the United States until their cases are resolved because a shortage of beds at detention centres and rules that limit how long women with children can be held. "Catch and release is ridiculous. If they touch our property, if they touch our country, essentially you catch them and you release them into our country. That's not acceptable to anybody, so we need a change in the law," he said.

Eight women, children from Central American 'caravan' first to enter US

Dozens of Central American migrants from about 600 travelling in a "caravan" through Mexico arrived at the border city of Tijuana late on Tuesday despite warnings it would be futile to try to cross to claim asylum in the United States.

By evening, two busloads of men, women and children arrived in Tijuana, a city that grazes southern California.

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump has ordered officials to repel them.

The arrivals spilled into the streets and gazed toward San Diego, visible at spots through a rusty barrier or across a pedestrian bridge, exhausted after their trek that began a month ago near Mexico's southern border with Guatemala.

Another four busloads were making their way north from Hermosillo, a city 432 miles south of the border, where the migrants had been stalled for days.

Many who fled their homes in Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras because of what they described as lethal threats or political persecution have clung to the hope of receiving asylum in the United States. But their prospects dimmed after U.S. authorities released statements on Monday saying they would driven back.

Rodrigo Abeja, a coordinator from immigrant rights group Pueblo Sin Fronteras that has been organising similar caravans for several years, said the caravan planned to regroup before making any decisions.

"They will wait for all those seeking asylum to be together," Abeja said.

A third group, resigned to staying in Mexico, awaited processing for year-long visas by immigration authorities in Hermosillo.

Travelling as a group for safety, their numbers were down from a peak of about 1,500 people, dwindling under the twin pressures of waiting for transportation and attacks by Trump, who began lashing out at the caravan on Twitter in early April.

After Trump's comments, Mexican authorities stalled the caravan in a southern town and began handing out temporary visas that gave them legal status to travel to the border.

US President Donald Trump has ordered officials to repel them

Dozens of Central American migrants from about 600 travelling in a "caravan" through Mexico arrived at the border city of Tijuana late on Tuesday despite warnings it would be futile to try to cross to claim asylum in the United States. By evening, two busloads of men, women and children arrived in Tijuana, a city that grazes southern California. US&nbspPresident Donald Trump has ordered officials to repel them. The arrivals spilled into the streets and gazed toward San Diego, visible at spots through a rusty barrier or across a pedestrian bridge, exhausted after their trek that began a month ago near Mexico's southern border with Guatemala. Another four busloads were making their way north from Hermosillo, a city 432 miles south of the border, where the migrants had been stalled for days. Many who fled their homes in Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras because of what they described as lethal threats or political persecution have clung to the hope of receiving asylum in the United States. But their prospects dimmed after U.S. authorities released statements on Monday saying they would driven back. Rodrigo Abeja, a coordinator from immigrant rights group Pueblo Sin Fronteras that has been organising similar caravans for several years, said the caravan planned to regroup before making any decisions. "They will wait for all those seeking asylum to be together," Abeja said. A third group, resigned to staying in Mexico, awaited processing for year-long visas by immigration authorities in Hermosillo. Travelling as a group for safety, their numbers were down from a peak of about 1,500 people, dwindling under the twin pressures of waiting for transportation and attacks by Trump, who began lashing out at the caravan on Twitter in early April. After Trump's comments, Mexican authorities stalled the caravan in a southern town and began handing out temporary visas that gave them legal status to travel to the border.

Busloads of migrants from 'caravan' arrive at US-Mexico border

President Donald Trump lashed out in fury Monday over immigration, an outburst triggered by images of a "caravan" of hundreds of Central American migrants headed toward the US border.

For the second straight day, Trump took to Twitter to attack Mexico for allowing the 1,500-strong group to march unimpeded toward the United States, their daily progress mapped out by US media.

He threatened to abrogate NAFTA, the US-Mexico-Canada free trade pact, and demanded Congress pass tougher immigration legislation and support his plan for a wall along the Mexican frontier.

He also declared he no longer supported a replacement for DACA, the program that had offered protection against deportation for about 700,000 undocumented immigrants, most of them Mexicans, who came to the US as children.

"Mexico has the absolute power not to let these large 'Caravans'&nbsp;of people enter their country," the president wrote.

"Mexico is making a fortune on NAFTA... They have very strong border laws -- ours are pathetic," he added.

"With all of the money they make from the US, hopefully they will stop people from coming through their country and into ours, at least until Congress changes our immigration laws!"

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto demanded that the United States respectfully pursue the trade negotiations, despite the disagreements over immigration.

"We have been conducting serious negotiations," he said, expressing hope that "this spirit of positivity, mutual respect and cordiality" will continue, while looking for areas "that really favor the development of the three countries."

Since taking office more than a year ago, Trump has focused on cracking down on legal and undocumented immigration.

He has repeatedly tried to link immigration with crime but immigrant defenders say many immigrants are fleeing poverty and violence.Mexico's Interior Minister Alfonso Navarrete Prida rejected Trump's accusations.

"It is absolutely incorrect to say that Mexico is not making an effort" to control illegal migration, he told journalists.

"We have been following the course of this caravan, whose numbers have fallen significantly... Of course we will act, let me be clear, in strict compliance with our migration laws, without accepting pressure from any country or anyone."

Organized each of the past five years by activists of Pueblo Sin Fronteras, or People Without Borders, the 1,500 migrants say they have fled El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras or Nicaragua because of poverty and widespread violence from criminal gangs.

They set off on March 25 from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas for the US border, where many hope to apply for asylum.

On Monday, they were passing through the mountainous southern Mexican state of Oaxaca.

Trump appears to have become aware of them over the weekend from a report on Fox News, which he regularly watches.

"Mexico is doing very little, if not NOTHING, at stopping people from flowing into Mexico through their Southern Border, and then into the US. They laugh at our dumb immigration laws. They must stop the big drug and people flows, or I will stop their cash cow, NAFTA," he tweeted on Sunday.

He demanded Congress pass tougher immigration laws and give more support to building a wall along the border. Accusing the migrants of seeking to benefit from DACA, he declared no deal would be made to replace it.

A leader of the caravan countered that Trump is using it as a "pretext" to stop any deal on DACA that would provide those qualified -- as many as 1.8 million people -- a path to citizenship.

"This is just a pretense to lay the blame somewhere else. He's just using our movement, the caravan, as a pretext," caravan organizer Rodrigo Abeja told AFP.

Abeja said the Mexican government was in a difficult position with the caravan, given the growing publicity attached to its daily progress.&nbsp;

"The Mexican government is under a lot of pressure from the United States to show that it has control over its borders," he said.&nbsp;

A leader of the caravan countered that Trump is using it as a 'pretex' to stop any deal on DACA that would provide those qualified a path to citizenship

President Donald Trump lashed out in fury Monday over immigration, an outburst triggered by images of a "caravan" of hundreds of Central American migrants headed toward the US border. For the second straight day, Trump took to Twitter to attack Mexico for allowing the 1,500-strong group to march unimpeded toward the United States, their daily progress mapped out by US media. He threatened to abrogate NAFTA, the US-Mexico-Canada free trade pact, and demanded Congress pass tougher immigration legislation and support his plan for a wall along the Mexican frontier. He also declared he no longer supported a replacement for DACA, the program that had offered protection against deportation for about 700,000 undocumented immigrants, most of them Mexicans, who came to the US as children. "Mexico has the absolute power not to let these large 'Caravans' of people enter their country," the president wrote. "Mexico is making a fortune on NAFTA... They have very strong border laws -- ours are pathetic," he added. "With all of the money they make from the US, hopefully they will stop people from coming through their country and into ours, at least until Congress changes our immigration laws!" Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto demanded that the United States respectfully pursue the trade negotiations, despite the disagreements over immigration. "We have been conducting serious negotiations," he said, expressing hope that "this spirit of positivity, mutual respect and cordiality" will continue, while looking for areas "that really favor the development of the three countries." Since taking office more than a year ago, Trump has focused on cracking down on legal and undocumented immigration. He has repeatedly tried to link immigration with crime but immigrant defenders say many immigrants are fleeing poverty and violence.Mexico's Interior Minister Alfonso Navarrete Prida rejected Trump's accusations. "It is absolutely incorrect to say that Mexico is not making an effort" to control illegal migration, he told journalists. "We have been following the course of this caravan, whose numbers have fallen significantly... Of course we will act, let me be clear, in strict compliance with our migration laws, without accepting pressure from any country or anyone." Organized each of the past five years by activists of Pueblo Sin Fronteras, or People Without Borders, the 1,500 migrants say they have fled El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras or Nicaragua because of poverty and widespread violence from criminal gangs. They set off on March 25 from the southern Mexican state of Chiapas for the US border, where many hope to apply for asylum. On Monday, they were passing through the mountainous southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. Trump appears to have become aware of them over the weekend from a report on Fox News, which he regularly watches. "Mexico is doing very little, if not NOTHING, at stopping people from flowing into Mexico through their Southern Border, and then into the US. They laugh at our dumb immigration laws. They must stop the big drug and people flows, or I will stop their cash cow, NAFTA," he tweeted on Sunday. He demanded Congress pass tougher immigration laws and give more support to building a wall along the border. Accusing the migrants of seeking to benefit from DACA, he declared no deal would be made to replace it. A leader of the caravan countered that Trump is using it as a "pretext" to stop any deal on DACA that would provide those qualified -- as many as 1.8 million people -- a path to citizenship. "This is just a pretense to lay the blame somewhere else. He's just using our movement, the caravan, as a pretext," caravan organizer Rodrigo Abeja told AFP. Abeja said the Mexican government was in a difficult position with the caravan, given the growing publicity attached to its daily progress. "The Mexican government is under a lot of pressure from the United States to show that it has control over its borders," he said.

Trump outraged over Mexico migrant 'caravan'

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