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Ex-Migration Chief Garduño Issues Court-Ordered Apology Over 2023 Juárez Detention Fire

The apology was mandated under a conditional suspension that victims' groups insist does not close the case.

Overview

  • At the Museum of Mexico City, Francisco Garduño apologized to families, read the 40 victims' names, and acknowledged lasting harm to 27 survivors.
  • The act fulfills conditions set by Judge Víctor Manlio Hernández Calderón for a suspension that lets him face charges in freedom while other prosecutions continue.
  • Survivors and relatives rejected the gesture, demanding an exhaustive independent investigation, proportional sanctions and full compensation for 82 victims, including women they say were not recognized.
  • Rights groups emphasized the apology was a personal act rather than a State admission, noted CEAV coordination, and criticized holding it in Mexico City instead of Ciudad Juárez.
  • Evidence from videos and inquiries indicates guards left detainees locked inside during the blaze, and multiple officials, contractors and two migrants are still facing homicide and injury charges.