Mexican officials said&nbsp;on Tuesday (Mar 12) that&nbsp;two missing detectives who were searching for 43 students missing for nearly a decade, have been found.

The news came just two days after they disappeared&nbsp;in Guerrero, a state on Mexico's Pacific coast.

Authorities did not disclose&nbsp;details on how the two detectives, one male and one female, were located, leaving questions unanswered regarding their whereabouts and any potential captivity they may have faced.

Earlier, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador expressed concern over the disappearance of the detectives, linking it to forces resistant to uncovering the truth behind the missing students' case.

&nbsp;“I hope this is not related to those who do not want us to find the youths,”&nbsp;López Obrador said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mexico-surpasses-china-as-top-source-of-us-imports-amid-global-economic-shifts-688161">Also read |&nbsp;Mexico surpasses China as top source of US imports amid global economic shifts</a>

<h2>Context of Guerrero state</h2>

Guerrero state has grappled with lawlessness for years, notably marked by the unresolved case of 43 students from a rural teachers' college who vanished in 2014.

Suspected involvement of local officials and drug cartels in their abduction and murder has fueled unrest in the region.

The volatile situation escalated last week when a student was fatally shot by police, triggering protests. In response, students stormed state prosecutors' offices, setting off explosives and vandalising property, indicating deep-seated anger and distrust toward authorities.

Efforts to locate the missing students have been hindered by limited progress, with only a few bone fragments identified so far.

The rugged terrain and cartel dominance make the search for clandestine burial sites arduous and perilous.

Also watch |&nbsp;Mexico restarts repatriating Venezuelans as tensions over migration run high

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Videos circulating on social media also show&nbsp;the grip of drug cartels, with gang members brutalising bus drivers for alleged non-compliance.

Additionally, tensions have mounted between López Obrador and the students' families, who accuse him of insufficient action.

Last week, protesters stormed the National Palace, demanding accountability and answers, reflecting deep-seated frustration and grievances, as reported by the Associated Press news agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mexican officials said on Tuesday (Mar 12) that two missing detectives who were searching for 43 students missing for nearly a decade, have been found. The news came just two days after they disappeared in Guerrero, a state on Mexico's Pacific coast.

Mexican officials said on Tuesday (Mar 12) that two missing detectives who were searching for 43 students missing for nearly a decade, have been found. The news came just two days after they disappeared in Guerrero, a state on Mexico's Pacific coast. Authorities did not disclose details on how the two detectives, one male and one female, were located, leaving questions unanswered regarding their whereabouts and any potential captivity they may have faced. Earlier, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador expressed concern over the disappearance of the detectives, linking it to forces resistant to uncovering the truth behind the missing students' case. “I hope this is not related to those who do not want us to find the youths,” López Obrador said. Also read | Mexico surpasses China as top source of US imports amid global economic shifts Context of Guerrero state Guerrero state has grappled with lawlessness for years, notably marked by the unresolved case of 43 students from a rural teachers' college who vanished in 2014. Suspected involvement of local officials and drug cartels in their abduction and murder has fueled unrest in the region. The volatile situation escalated last week when a student was fatally shot by police, triggering protests. In response, students stormed state prosecutors' offices, setting off explosives and vandalising property, indicating deep-seated anger and distrust toward authorities. Efforts to locate the missing students have been hindered by limited progress, with only a few bone fragments identified so far. The rugged terrain and cartel dominance make the search for clandestine burial sites arduous and perilous. Also watch | Mexico restarts repatriating Venezuelans as tensions over migration run high Videos circulating on social media also show the grip of drug cartels, with gang members brutalising bus drivers for alleged non-compliance. Additionally, tensions have mounted between López Obrador and the students' families, who accuse him of insufficient action. Last week, protesters stormed the National Palace, demanding accountability and answers, reflecting deep-seated frustration and grievances, as reported by the Associated Press news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico: Two detectives found after mysterious disappearance during search for missing students

A group of protesters protesting the disappearance of 43 students in Mexico in 2014 knocked down a door at the country's presidential Palace. The protesters rammed down the door using a pickup truck from Mexico state electrical company while President Andrés Manuel López Obrador was giving his daily morning press conference. Watch to know more!

Mexico: Protesters knock down door of Mexico's Presidential palace over disappearance of 43 students

Mexico's electoral race is heating up two women are eyeing to become the next president of Mexico rival candidates Xochitl Galvez from the opposition and ruling Party candidate Claudia Sheinbaum have launched their campaigns now this is likely to produce Mexico's first ever female president. Watch to know more!

Mexico Elections 2024: Two women in the race to be Mexico's next President

Ahead of America's November Presidential Elections, President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump visited the Mexico-US border. In the high-stakes race to the white house, their visit will be an attempt to address the key issue of illegal immigration.

US: Donald Trump blames Biden for migrant crisis, calls illegal crossings a 'Joe Biden invasion'

US President Biden & former President Trump's face off over migrant crisis, visit US-Mexico border

US: Donald Trump visits US-Mexico border

The violence in President&nbsp;Andrés Manuel López Obrador's Mexico continues unabated. The latest incident occurred in Maravatio where two candidates who were standing for the position of&nbsp;mayor were shot dead within hours of each other ahead of the June 2 elections.

The drug cartels have been tightening their grip on the South American country with violence particularly escalating in the run-up to the elections.&nbsp;

<h2>Mexico elections, mayor candidates shot dead: What happened?</h2>

Armando Pérez, the mayoral candidate for the conservative National Action Party, was&nbsp;shot dead in his car in Maravatio just before midnight, state prosecutors announced on Tuesday (Feb 27). Pérez's killing came even before the formal commencement of election campaigns.

The election campaigns are scheduled to begin later this week on&nbsp;Friday (Mar 1).

Also watch | Mexico Elections: Violence hits record peak

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Marko Cortés, the leader of the National Action Party, took to social media and said, "This illustrates the extremely serious level of violence and lack of safety that prevails ahead of the most important elections in Mexican history."

The ruling Morena party also faced a devastating blow, with their candidate, Miguel Ángel Zavala, found shot to death in his car a day earlier.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-26-killed-in-tractor-trailer-van-crash-in-northern-mexico-592444">At least 26 killed as tractor trailer and van collide in northern Mexico</a>

While Morena officials denounced the act as "cowardly and reprehensible," Juan Pablo Celis, head of Morena in Michoacan, clarified that Zavala had expressed his intention to run but had not yet been officially designated as the party’s candidate.

<h2>Drug cartel violence flashpoint in Mexico</h2>

Michoacan, a western state grappling with intense gang turf wars, particularly between the Jalisco New Generation cartel and the local Viagras gang, stands as a poignant example of the escalating violence.

Civic Data, a watchdog group in a January report on political violence, said: "2023 was the most violent year in our database. And everything suggests that 2024 will be worse."&nbsp;

Mexico conducts its mayoral, state, and federal elections all at once.&nbsp;

For cartels, extorting protection payments from local businesses and governments remains&nbsp;a lucrative revenue stream.

(With inputs from agencies)

The violence in President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's Mexico continues unabated. The latest incident occurred in Maravatio where two candidates who were standing for the position of mayor were shot dead within hours of each other ahead of the June 2 elections.

The violence in President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's Mexico continues unabated. The latest incident occurred in Maravatio where two candidates who were standing for the position of mayor were shot dead within hours of each other ahead of the June 2 elections. The drug cartels have been tightening their grip on the South American country with violence particularly escalating in the run-up to the elections. Mexico elections, mayor candidates shot dead: What happened? Armando Pérez, the mayoral candidate for the conservative National Action Party, was shot dead in his car in Maravatio just before midnight, state prosecutors announced on Tuesday (Feb 27). Pérez's killing came even before the formal commencement of election campaigns. The election campaigns are scheduled to begin later this week on Friday (Mar 1). Also watch | Mexico Elections: Violence hits record peak × Marko Cortés, the leader of the National Action Party, took to social media and said, "This illustrates the extremely serious level of violence and lack of safety that prevails ahead of the most important elections in Mexican history." The ruling Morena party also faced a devastating blow, with their candidate, Miguel Ángel Zavala, found shot to death in his car a day earlier. Also read | At least 26 killed as tractor trailer and van collide in northern Mexico While Morena officials denounced the act as "cowardly and reprehensible," Juan Pablo Celis, head of Morena in Michoacan, clarified that Zavala had expressed his intention to run but had not yet been officially designated as the party’s candidate. Drug cartel violence flashpoint in Mexico Michoacan, a western state grappling with intense gang turf wars, particularly between the Jalisco New Generation cartel and the local Viagras gang, stands as a poignant example of the escalating violence. Civic Data, a watchdog group in a January report on political violence, said: "2023 was the most violent year in our database. And everything suggests that 2024 will be worse." Mexico conducts its mayoral, state, and federal elections all at once. For cartels, extorting protection payments from local businesses and governments remains a lucrative revenue stream. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico: Mayoral candidates gunned down as drug cartels vie influence ahead of June elections

The streets of Mexico have already been painted purple with the flowering of thousands of jacaranda trees. They normally awaken in spring. But this year some jacarandas began blooming as early as January. The early onset bloom has set off alarm bells among residents and scientists in Mexico city. Watch to know more!

Early jacaranda bloom in Mexico raises concerns about climate change

Aerial footage from drones captured the heightened activity of Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano, as it emitted a dense plume of ash and gas.

Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano: Volcanic gas emission triggers yellow alert for residents

In the vibrant Mexican resort town of Cancun, police have cracked down on a notorious drug syndicate, nabbing six members allegedly embroiled in a string of gruesome crimes. These include the savage slaying and dismemberment of five victims using a machete, and the callous burial of three others in a shallow grave.

<h2>How the group carried out their crimes</h2>

According to an Independent UK report quoting prosecutors, this nefarious group, accused of extortion among other offences, operated under the cloak of a web of motorcycle taxis and underage lookouts.&nbsp;

Furthermore, authorities announced the arrest of 23 individuals linked to a fake tour agency suspected to be a front for drug trafficking activities in Cancun.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-95-billion-ukraine-israel-aid-bill-689917">US Senate passes $95 billion aid bill for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan</a>

The alleged culprits purportedly ran a call centre, peddling sports gear and holiday packages to unsuspecting tourists — which were never delivered. Yet, on the second floor, was a hub for drug transactions that were made over the phone, and delivered by motorbike couriers.

In another crackdown, Cancun authorities arrested an individual who is accused of sourcing and selling drugs via social media platforms. He even offered home delivery.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robert-f-kennedy-jr-apologises-to-family-over-super-bowl-ad-similar-to-jfks-689938">Robert F Kennedy Jr apologises to family over Super Bowl ad similar to JFK's</a>

These revelations follow a tragic episode where a US national and a Belizean man fell victim to gunfire at a Tulum beach club located south of Cancun. Quintana Roo's prosecutors clarified that the American woman had no connection to a man, believed to be a drug dealer, who was also killed in the shooting.

The surge of drug-related incidents in Mexico's Quintana Roo state, notably along its the Caribbean coast, has sparked alarm. Recently, foreign tourists have been killed in a series of fatal shootings because of drug-related violence in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the vibrant Mexican resort town of Cancun, police have cracked down on a notorious drug syndicate, nabbing six members allegedly embroiled in a string of gruesome crimes.

In the vibrant Mexican resort town of Cancun, police have cracked down on a notorious drug syndicate, nabbing six members allegedly embroiled in a string of gruesome crimes. These include the savage slaying and dismemberment of five victims using a machete, and the callous burial of three others in a shallow grave. How the group carried out their crimes According to an Independent UK report quoting prosecutors, this nefarious group, accused of extortion among other offences, operated under the cloak of a web of motorcycle taxis and underage lookouts. Furthermore, authorities announced the arrest of 23 individuals linked to a fake tour agency suspected to be a front for drug trafficking activities in Cancun. Also read | US Senate passes $95 billion aid bill for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan The alleged culprits purportedly ran a call centre, peddling sports gear and holiday packages to unsuspecting tourists — which were never delivered. Yet, on the second floor, was a hub for drug transactions that were made over the phone, and delivered by motorbike couriers. In another crackdown, Cancun authorities arrested an individual who is accused of sourcing and selling drugs via social media platforms. He even offered home delivery. Also read | Robert F Kennedy Jr apologises to family over Super Bowl ad similar to JFK's These revelations follow a tragic episode where a US national and a Belizean man fell victim to gunfire at a Tulum beach club located south of Cancun. Quintana Roo's prosecutors clarified that the American woman had no connection to a man, believed to be a drug dealer, who was also killed in the shooting. The surge of drug-related incidents in Mexico's Quintana Roo state, notably along its the Caribbean coast, has sparked alarm. Recently, foreign tourists have been killed in a series of fatal shootings because of drug-related violence in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Cancun crackdown: Police bust drug syndicate that hacked to death 5 people with machete

Republicans impeached US President Joe Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday. It marked the culmination of months of attacks on the Democratic Administration as they seek to make border security a key issue in November's election. Conservatives in the House of Representatives narrowly controlled by the Republicans blame Homeland Security secretary for a surge in illegal entries from Mexico. Watch to know more!

US: President Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached over border crisis

US: Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached over border crisis

In a significant economic shift, Mexico has emerged as the leading source of goods imported to the United States, overtaking China for the first time in more than two decades. <o:p></o:p>

According to a report by the Associated Press (AP), figures released by the US Commerce Department on Wednesday reveal that the value of goods imported from Mexico to the US rose nearly 5 per cent in 2023, reaching over $475 billion, while Chinese imports saw a significant decline of 20 per cent, totalling $427 billion.<o:p></o:p>

This historic change in import dynamics underscores the growing tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the US making deliberate efforts to diversify sources and foster relationships with countries closer to home. <o:p></o:p>

The Trump administration initiated tariffs on Chinese imports in 2018, a trend continued by President Biden, reflecting a bipartisan consensus on addressing trade imbalances and concerns about Beijing's trade practices.<o:p></o:p>

Amidst the strained US-China economic relations, the Biden administration has been encouraging companies to explore alternative sourcing strategies such as "friend-shoring" in allied countries or "reshoring" by bringing manufacturing back to the US.<o:p></o:p>

This shift is in response to the challenges posed by offshoring to China and the disruptions in global supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading companies to seek suppliers closer to the United States, a strategy referred to as "near-shoring".<o:p></o:p>

The growing trend of importing goods from Mexico is not a straightforward narrative. <o:p></o:p>

While Mexico has benefited from the shift away from Chinese factories, some Chinese manufacturers have established operations in Mexico, leveraging the advantages of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. <o:p></o:p>

This agreement, in effect for three years, facilitates duty-free trade in North America for many products. <o:p></o:p>

Derek Scissors, a China specialist at the American Enterprise Institute, highlighted that major drops in Chinese imports were observed in politically sensitive categories like computers, electronics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals.<o:p></o:p>

Scissors suggested that the decline in US reliance on Chinese goods is influenced by wariness towards Beijing's economic policies, particularly under President Xi Jinping. <o:p></o:p>

Factors such as Xi's stringent COVID-19 lockdowns in 2022 and counterespionage investigations targeting foreign companies have contributed to a reassessment of China's reliability. <o:p></o:p>

He noted that the shift in import patterns may not be a temporary change, stating, "I don't see the US being comfortable with a rebound in those areas in 2024 and 2025."<o:p></o:p>

Overall, the US trade deficit in goods with the rest of the world narrowed by 10 per cent in the past year, amounting to $1.06 trillion.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from AP)<o:p></o:p>

In a significant economic shift, Mexico has emerged as the leading source of goods imported to the United States, overtaking China for the first time in more than two decades.

In a significant economic shift, Mexico has emerged as the leading source of goods imported to the United States, overtaking China for the first time in more than two decades. According to a report by the Associated Press (AP), figures released by the US Commerce Department on Wednesday reveal that the value of goods imported from Mexico to the US rose nearly 5 per cent in 2023, reaching over $475 billion, while Chinese imports saw a significant decline of 20 per cent, totalling $427 billion. This historic change in import dynamics underscores the growing tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the US making deliberate efforts to diversify sources and foster relationships with countries closer to home. The Trump administration initiated tariffs on Chinese imports in 2018, a trend continued by President Biden, reflecting a bipartisan consensus on addressing trade imbalances and concerns about Beijing's trade practices. Amidst the strained US-China economic relations, the Biden administration has been encouraging companies to explore alternative sourcing strategies such as "friend-shoring" in allied countries or "reshoring" by bringing manufacturing back to the US. This shift is in response to the challenges posed by offshoring to China and the disruptions in global supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading companies to seek suppliers closer to the United States, a strategy referred to as "near-shoring". The growing trend of importing goods from Mexico is not a straightforward narrative. While Mexico has benefited from the shift away from Chinese factories, some Chinese manufacturers have established operations in Mexico, leveraging the advantages of the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. This agreement, in effect for three years, facilitates duty-free trade in North America for many products. Derek Scissors, a China specialist at the American Enterprise Institute, highlighted that major drops in Chinese imports were observed in politically sensitive categories like computers, electronics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Scissors suggested that the decline in US reliance on Chinese goods is influenced by wariness towards Beijing's economic policies, particularly under President Xi Jinping. Factors such as Xi's stringent COVID-19 lockdowns in 2022 and counterespionage investigations targeting foreign companies have contributed to a reassessment of China's reliability. He noted that the shift in import patterns may not be a temporary change, stating, "I don't see the US being comfortable with a rebound in those areas in 2024 and 2025." Overall, the US trade deficit in goods with the rest of the world narrowed by 10 per cent in the past year, amounting to $1.06 trillion. (With inputs from AP)

Mexico surpasses China as top source of US imports amid global economic shifts

The United States' Texas governor has vowed to defy the Biden Administration and maintain State control of a US border hotspot as long as it takes while the Biden Administration has maintained that border control Falls strictly under Federal jurisdiction.

US-Mexico border crisis | Democrats and Republicans spar over migrant crisis

The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase.

The 48-team World Cup, which will conclude on July 19 at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-brazil-coach-dorival-junior-promises-to-turn-fortunes-after-poor-2026-world-cup-qualifiers-run-679316">New Brazil coach Dorival Junior promises to turn fortunes after poor 2026 World Cup qualifiers run</a>

The open-air stadium for the final, which has a capacity of 82,500, hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016 when Chile denied Lionel Messi's Argentina for a second time in a penalty shootout.

Mexico City's Estadio Azteca will host the opening match of tournament on June 11 when Mexico will become the first nation to stage the World Cup for a third time.

Mexico hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, with the finals of both editions held at Estadio Azteca where Pele's Brazil crushed Italy 4-1 and Diego Maradona's Argentina beat West Germany 3-2.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-cup-2024-jordan-end-tajikistans-fairytale-to-reach-maiden-semi-final-686488">Asian Cup 2024: Jordan end Tajikistan's fairytale to reach maiden semi-final</a>

The first match in Canada, which has never hosted a World Cup game, will be on June 12 in Toronto at the home of the city's Major League Soccer team while the opening game in the United States will be in Los Angeles at the home of the NFL's Rams.

The 2026 World Cup will feature 104 matches instead of the traditional 64 games, including an additional knockout round due to the previously announced decision to expand to 48 teams from 32.

The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase.

The 2026 World Cup final will be held in New Jersey at the home of the National Football League's New York Giants and New York Jets, world soccer's governing body FIFA announced on Sunday, along with the entire schedule for the global soccer showcase. The 48-team World Cup, which will conclude on July 19 at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. ALSO READ | New Brazil coach Dorival Junior promises to turn fortunes after poor 2026 World Cup qualifiers run The open-air stadium for the final, which has a capacity of 82,500, hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016 when Chile denied Lionel Messi's Argentina for a second time in a penalty shootout. Mexico City's Estadio Azteca will host the opening match of tournament on June 11 when Mexico will become the first nation to stage the World Cup for a third time. Mexico hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986, with the finals of both editions held at Estadio Azteca where Pele's Brazil crushed Italy 4-1 and Diego Maradona's Argentina beat West Germany 3-2. ALSO READ | Asian Cup 2024: Jordan end Tajikistan's fairytale to reach maiden semi-final The first match in Canada, which has never hosted a World Cup game, will be on June 12 in Toronto at the home of the city's Major League Soccer team while the opening game in the United States will be in Los Angeles at the home of the NFL's Rams. The 2026 World Cup will feature 104 matches instead of the traditional 64 games, including an additional knockout round due to the previously announced decision to expand to 48 teams from 32.

New Jersey to host 2026 World Cup final, Mexico gets opener

US' Texas is continuing to erect razor wire across a 29-mile stretch of the riverbank in Eagle Pass despite opposition from the Biden Administration.

US-Mexico border crisis: US' Texas continues to erect razor wire

Guided by their ancestral lunar calendar, members of Mexico's Purepecha Indigenous group celebrated their own New Year's Eve. Watch the video to know more.

Mexico's indigenous group celebrates new year

Earlier, US SC ordered removal of razor wires from Texas border. US President addresses cross-border migration in campaign speech. President Biden to back extreme measures on migration. Watch to know more!

US Migrant Crisis: Biden to support 'extreme measures' in new migration bill

NASA Chief Bill Nelson has said that he personally believes that aliens do exist. This comes after a self-proclaimed UFO researcher presented 'alien bodies' before the Mexican Parliament. Were the bodies really extra-terrestrial? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

NASA Chief says Aliens exist | This World

Mass shooting and gun violence has reared its ugly head repeatedly in the United States over the last few years - the Centre for Disease Control and prevention.

Mexico: US-made guns used by drug cartels, gun violence surge in Mexico

In an ongoing clash between Texas state authorities and the US federal government, the country's Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 decision, has temporarily allowed Border Patrol agents to cut or remove razor-wire fencing strategically placed by Texas officials along a portion of the state's border with Mexico. The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, responsible for the disputed interim ruling, is scheduled to hear arguments on February 7 regarding whether Border Patrol agents breached Texas law.

This move was part of Texas's Operation Lone Star, which involved various deterrent measures, including the state's National Guard deployment and the controversial floating barrier over the Rio Grande.

The decision came in response to a request from President Joe Biden's administration, seeking to pause a lower court's ruling that had temporarily blocked federal agents from removing the fencing.&nbsp;

Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, along with three liberal justices, formed the majority. Meanwhile, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented against the ruling which allowed fencing removal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Texas had filed a lawsuit in October 2023, accusing the Biden administration of intensifying practices that damaged strategically placed fencing on private land. Following this, the state was able to get an emergency restraining order from a federal judge, resulting in the termination of actions by federal agents.&nbsp;

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, after the ruling said, “The Supreme Court’s temporary order allows Biden to continue his illegal effort to aid the foreign invasion of America."&nbsp;

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“The destruction of Texas’s border barriers will not help enforce the law or keep American citizens safe. This fight is not over, and I look forward to defending our state’s sovereignty," he added.&nbsp;

A White House spokesperson, while reacting to the decision, said,&nbsp;"Ultimately, we need adequate resources and policy changes to address our broken immigration system... That is why he (Biden) is working to find a bipartisan agreement with Congress that includes additional resources and meaningful policy reforms."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In an ongoing clash between Texas state authorities and the US federal government, the country's Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 decision, has temporarily allowed Border Patrol agents to cut or remove razor-wire fencing strategically placed by Texas officials along a portion of the state's border with Mexico.

In an ongoing clash between Texas state authorities and the US federal government, the country's Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 decision, has temporarily allowed Border Patrol agents to cut or remove razor-wire fencing strategically placed by Texas officials along a portion of the state's border with Mexico. The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, responsible for the disputed interim ruling, is scheduled to hear arguments on February 7 regarding whether Border Patrol agents breached Texas law. This move was part of Texas's Operation Lone Star, which involved various deterrent measures, including the state's National Guard deployment and the controversial floating barrier over the Rio Grande. The decision came in response to a request from President Joe Biden's administration, seeking to pause a lower court's ruling that had temporarily blocked federal agents from removing the fencing. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, along with three liberal justices, formed the majority. Meanwhile, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented against the ruling which allowed fencing removal. Also Read | US Navy identifies two SEALs lost at sea during raid on ship carrying Iranian weapons Texas had filed a lawsuit in October 2023, accusing the Biden administration of intensifying practices that damaged strategically placed fencing on private land. Following this, the state was able to get an emergency restraining order from a federal judge, resulting in the termination of actions by federal agents. Also Read | China's state-owned banks rally to stabilise yuan amid stock market turmoil Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, after the ruling said, “The Supreme Court’s temporary order allows Biden to continue his illegal effort to aid the foreign invasion of America." Watch | Brazil's 're-industrialisation' plan × “The destruction of Texas’s border barriers will not help enforce the law or keep American citizens safe. This fight is not over, and I look forward to defending our state’s sovereignty," he added. A White House spokesperson, while reacting to the decision, said, "Ultimately, we need adequate resources and policy changes to address our broken immigration system... That is why he (Biden) is working to find a bipartisan agreement with Congress that includes additional resources and meaningful policy reforms." (With inputs from agencies)

Texas: SC grants temporary relief for removal of razor-wire fencing used to block border crossings

Top Biden administration officials huddled with Mexico’s president in urgent talks Wednesday to slow the record pace of illegal crossings at the U.S. southern border, just as congressional negotiators raced to reach a deal to tighten America’s immigration laws.

Thousands of migrants march through Mexico

Storms moving into the US Northeast have triggered another controversy involving migrants. The New York City administration was forced to evacuate nearly 2,000 migrants.

New York evacuates migrants to school, Mayor defends shifting migrants

According to US, the influx of migrants has been dropping in January 2024. Washington has been pushing Mexico to do more to block the influx of migrants. More Mexican migrants are on their way to US. Watch to know more!

US-Mexico Migrant Issue: Asylum seekers accuse Mexican government of 'deceiving' them

US-Mexico Migrant Issue: Migrant caravan regroups in Mexico as assurance of exit visas fails

US-Mexico Migrant Crisis: US sees a drop in illegal border crossings in January 2024

Scientists have found an "unusually large" scaly animal similar to an alligator in the treetops of southern Mexico. It turned out to be a new species which has avoided detection by hiding in the foliage.

Scientists have found an "unusually large" scaly animal similar to an alligator in the treetops of southern Mexico. It turned out to be a new species which has avoided detection by hiding in the foliage. According to a study published in PLOS One journal, researchers searched for the elusive lizard-like creature on five expeditions between 2015 and 2022 after "intriguing photographs" of the animal emerged in 2014. The study noted that the search was "extraordinarily difficult." Researchers spent over 350 hours searching the ground and climbing about 20 trees to look at their limbs and canopy, the Miami Herald reported. Eventually, they found what they were looking for. They discovered it was a new species and named it Abronia cunemica or the Coapilla arboreal alligator lizard. About Coapilla Arboreal Alligator Lizards Coapilla arboreal alligator lizards can grow about 9.8 inches long and have a yellow-brown scaly body covered in darker brown blotches. They have pale yellow eyes with dark flecks, the research said. They live in the forest canopy, between 11 feet and 64 feet, and mostly come out in the morning or afternoon. ALSO READ | Scientists reveal how newborn galaxies went bananas at dawn of time but it’s not all about shape The researchers also found two female lizards who were pregnant. They also located two lizards "in a courtship bite-hold on the forest floor, after they presumably fell" from a nearby tree. When they captured the male, he stopped biting the female. However, it "re-initiated a more persistent bite hold on her head and neck" later in the day. Moreover, they encountered a female twice on their expedition within a roughly 30-foot area, but 97 days apart. According to the study, Coapilla arboreal alligator lizards might become inactive for some part of the year. Researchers have named the newly-discovered species "cunemica" after Cuñemo, the indigenous Zoque language name for Coapilla. The common name refers to their native area. The research team has found the Coapilla arboreal alligator lizards only in Coapilla, a town in the southern state of Chiapas, about 700 kilometres southeast of Mexico City. They have not revealed the exact location of the new species to protect them. Scientists found another group of alligator lizards exclusive to Central America, inhabiting "humid highland forests." These "mysterious" lizards have gone unnoticed for so long due to their "cryptic behaviour" and limited distribution area. (With inputs from agencies)

Unusually large, alligator-like new species found in Mexico

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has urged the United States to allocate $20 billion to tackle the escalating issue of illegal immigration.&nbsp;

Obrador's comment comes in the wake of a significant rise in illegal border crossings, with November alone witnessing 192,000 violations and an additional 9,600 daily migrant encounters during the initial three weeks of December.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-donkey-flights-what-it-means-and-the-modus-operandi-behind-risky-border-crossings-674766">Explained | 'Donkey flights': What it means and the modus operandi behind risky border crossings</a>

Obrador said during a briefing with journalists on Friday (Jan 5) that he requested US authorities to deploy the $20 billion in funds as part of a cooperative plan to help other countries in Latin America to combat the migrant crisis.

Additionally, Obrador appealed to the US to grant visas to at least 10 million Hispanic migrants with over a decade of work experience in the country, a point reportedly raised during his recent meeting with President Joe Biden in Mexico City.

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Republican Senators visit Texas border over migration crisis

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On December 31, 2023, armed individuals kidnapped 32 Venezuelan and Honduran migrants from a bus. The perpetrators aimed to extort money from the victims and their families in the United States.

<h2>Need for enhanced law enforcement in focus</h2>

A phone conversation between Presidents Biden and Obrador on December 21 called for the need for enhanced enforcement at key ports of entry.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, and White House Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall were subsequently sent to Mexico to address the pressing situation.

Notably in May 2023, President Obrador criticised the Biden administration for lifting the Title 42 immigration policy, arguing that it incentivised smugglers to exploit the situation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-title-42-covid-19-restricting-law-biden-administration-plans-to-lift-590561">What is Title 42? Covid migration control law from Trump era lapses, leading to worries of new influx</a>

Title 42, initially implemented during the Covid pandemic, expired on May 11, coinciding with the conclusion of the health emergency.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has urged the United States to allocate $20 billion to tackle the escalating issue of illegal immigration. Obrador's comment comes in the wake of a significant rise in illegal border crossings, with November alone witnessing 192,000 violations and an additional 9,600 daily migrant encounters during the initial three weeks of December.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has urged the United States to allocate $20 billion to tackle the escalating issue of illegal immigration. Obrador's comment comes in the wake of a significant rise in illegal border crossings, with November alone witnessing 192,000 violations and an additional 9,600 daily migrant encounters during the initial three weeks of December. Also read | Explained | 'Donkey flights': What it means and the modus operandi behind risky border crossings Obrador said during a briefing with journalists on Friday (Jan 5) that he requested US authorities to deploy the $20 billion in funds as part of a cooperative plan to help other countries in Latin America to combat the migrant crisis. Additionally, Obrador appealed to the US to grant visas to at least 10 million Hispanic migrants with over a decade of work experience in the country, a point reportedly raised during his recent meeting with President Joe Biden in Mexico City. Also watch | US: Republican Senators visit Texas border over migration crisis × On December 31, 2023, armed individuals kidnapped 32 Venezuelan and Honduran migrants from a bus. The perpetrators aimed to extort money from the victims and their families in the United States. Need for enhanced law enforcement in focus A phone conversation between Presidents Biden and Obrador on December 21 called for the need for enhanced enforcement at key ports of entry. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, and White House Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall were subsequently sent to Mexico to address the pressing situation. Notably in May 2023, President Obrador criticised the Biden administration for lifting the Title 42 immigration policy, arguing that it incentivised smugglers to exploit the situation. Also read | What is Title 42? Covid migration control law from Trump era lapses, leading to worries of new influx Title 42, initially implemented during the Covid pandemic, expired on May 11, coinciding with the conclusion of the health emergency. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexican president seeks billions in funding from US to combat illegal migration

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity.

He said that the migrants, who were found on Wednesday, were abandoned by their kidnappers in a parking lot in a shopping center in the northern city of Reynosa in the state of Tamaulipas.

"Because there was a strong deployment (from Mexican authorities), they decided to free them, safe and sound," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in his morning press conference.

The case has highlighted the risks faced by the hundreds of thousands of migrants who cross through Mexico en route to the U.S. border each year, who are targets of extortion and kidnapping by powerful criminal groups.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-calls-for-more-production-of-missile-launchers-amid-us-south-korea-wargames-676745">Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames</a>

Human rights activists have been warning for months about an escalating kidnapping crisis in Reynosa, where last year Reuters documented a pattern of kidnappings - and at times sexual assault - of migrants and asylum seekers.

The 32 migrants were abducted on Saturday from a commercial bus that had departed the northern city of Monterrey for Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas, according to Mexican officials. They were forced off the bus while traveling through Reynosa and whisked away in cars by armed men, officials added.

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In a separate case, authorities in the border state of Sonora said on Thursday they had rescued around 20 migrants, many also kidnapped off busses.

<h2>Investigation opened&nbsp;</h2>

The group kidnapped in Reynosa was discovered after an anonymous caller tipped off authorities to their whereabouts, the state security agency's spokesman told Reuters.

The 32 migrants ranged in age from a 71-year-old man to a 1-year-old baby girl, with a total of 11 minors, he said, adding 26 were from Venezuela and six from Honduras.

The state attorney general's office said the migrants had given their testimonies and that the office has opened an investigation. No one has been arrested so far, Cuellar said.

Late on Thursday, Mexico's national migration institute said it would grant the migrants humanitarian visas.

A record number of migrants traveled across Central America and Mexico in 2023 aiming to reach the United States, fleeing poverty, violence, climate change and conflict.

Earlier this week, a 4,000-person caravan traveling through southern Mexico dispersed after leaders said migration authorities had promised to provide travel permits.

But the caravan's leader, Luis Garcia, said in a statement on Thursday that some migrants were "abandoned on the street" by authorities.

Mexico's migration institute did not respond to a request for comment.

<h2>"So scared"</h2>

The mass kidnapping has sparked increased fear among migrants in Mexico.

Diego Vargas, 25, of Colombia, said that just after Christmas, he and his wife landed a coveted appointment on a U.S. government app called CBP One, allowing them to approach a port of entry and cross into the United States legally.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-foreign-ministry-issues-warning-to-houthis-us-joe-biden-urges-to-strike-houthis-wion-676747">UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION</a>

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The appointment is scheduled at the Matamoros crossing in mid-January, he said.

But after learning of the kidnapping, he says he and his wife are faced with an impossible choice: risk their lives traveling on the same highway, or return to their country, where he says they fled death threats by a paramilitary group.

"We're so scared to try to reach the border," he said.

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity.

The armed men who kidnapped 32 migrants in northern Mexico over the weekend aimed to extort money from them and their families in the United States, Mexico's president said on Thursday, one day after the migrants were released from captivity. He said that the migrants, who were found on Wednesday, were abandoned by their kidnappers in a parking lot in a shopping center in the northern city of Reynosa in the state of Tamaulipas. "Because there was a strong deployment (from Mexican authorities), they decided to free them, safe and sound," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in his morning press conference. The case has highlighted the risks faced by the hundreds of thousands of migrants who cross through Mexico en route to the U.S. border each year, who are targets of extortion and kidnapping by powerful criminal groups. Also Read | Kim Jong Un calls for more production of missile launchers amid US-South Korea wargames Human rights activists have been warning for months about an escalating kidnapping crisis in Reynosa, where last year Reuters documented a pattern of kidnappings - and at times sexual assault - of migrants and asylum seekers. The 32 migrants were abducted on Saturday from a commercial bus that had departed the northern city of Monterrey for Matamoros, across from Brownsville, Texas, according to Mexican officials. They were forced off the bus while traveling through Reynosa and whisked away in cars by armed men, officials added. Indonesia Bandung train collision: Three dead on Java Island, several others injured In a separate case, authorities in the border state of Sonora said on Thursday they had rescued around 20 migrants, many also kidnapped off busses. Investigation opened The group kidnapped in Reynosa was discovered after an anonymous caller tipped off authorities to their whereabouts, the state security agency's spokesman told Reuters. The 32 migrants ranged in age from a 71-year-old man to a 1-year-old baby girl, with a total of 11 minors, he said, adding 26 were from Venezuela and six from Honduras. The state attorney general's office said the migrants had given their testimonies and that the office has opened an investigation. No one has been arrested so far, Cuellar said. Late on Thursday, Mexico's national migration institute said it would grant the migrants humanitarian visas. A record number of migrants traveled across Central America and Mexico in 2023 aiming to reach the United States, fleeing poverty, violence, climate change and conflict. Earlier this week, a 4,000-person caravan traveling through southern Mexico dispersed after leaders said migration authorities had promised to provide travel permits. But the caravan's leader, Luis Garcia, said in a statement on Thursday that some migrants were "abandoned on the street" by authorities. Mexico's migration institute did not respond to a request for comment. "So scared" The mass kidnapping has sparked increased fear among migrants in Mexico. Diego Vargas, 25, of Colombia, said that just after Christmas, he and his wife landed a coveted appointment on a U.S. government app called CBP One, allowing them to approach a port of entry and cross into the United States legally. Watch | UK Foreign Ministry issues warning to Houthis; US' Joe Biden urges to strike Houthis | WION × The appointment is scheduled at the Matamoros crossing in mid-January, he said. But after learning of the kidnapping, he says he and his wife are faced with an impossible choice: risk their lives traveling on the same highway, or return to their country, where he says they fled death threats by a paramilitary group. "We're so scared to try to reach the border," he said.

Armed men kidnapped 32 migrants in Mexico for extortion, president says

Department of Justice initiated a legal action against the state of Texas and its Governor to block a new and controversial State immigration law. The law was assigned into effect by the Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott on December 19th.

US-Mexico migrant row: US department of justice sues Texas & Gov Abbott over immigration law

US-Mexico migrant crisis: Migrants navigate through barbed wires to surrender in US | WION

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