Law enforcement officers in Los Angeles after the protests began Photo: Onathan Alcorn / Zuma Press
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Sunday called on the United States not to treat migrants as criminals. Her statement came after 35 Mexican nationals were arrested in Los Angeles as a result of immigration raids ordered by US President Donald Trump, AFP reports.
“Mexicans living in the United States are honest men and women seeking a better life and supporting their families. They are not criminals,” Sheinbaum said in a public address. She also emphasised that migrant labour is a significant pillar of the US economy.
After two days of violent protests, the US military began to arrive in Los Angeles, following Trump’s order to quell the unrest and continue deportations.
“We do not agree with such a tough migration policy, which includes raids and violence. The rights of migrants must be respected,” the Mexican president said, adding that Mexican diplomats are in contact with all detained compatriots.
According to CNS and other media outlets, dozens of people have been detained in the largest wave of immigration raids to hit several major US cities. President Trump promised an unprecedented campaign of deportations and repression against illegal migrants.
