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Guatemalan smugglers charged for deadly migrant crash three years ago

LEGAL NEWSLINE

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Guatemalan smugglers charged for deadly migrant crash three years ago

Attorneys & Judges
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U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani | U.S. Department of Justice

An international law enforcement operation has led to the arrest of five Guatemalan nationals accused of human smuggling related to a tragic incident in Chiapas, Mexico, on December 9, 2021. A semi-trailer truck carrying at least 160 migrants crashed, resulting in over 50 deaths and more than 100 injuries.

The arrests were made possible through cooperation between the U.S. Justice Department and Guatemalan authorities. The suspects include Jorge Agapito Ventura, who is set to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Edison. Additionally, Tomas Quino Canil, Alberto Marcario Chitic (also known as Alberto De Jesus), Oswaldo Manuel Zavala Quino (also known as Osvaldo ZQ), and Josefa Quino Canil De Zavala have been indicted in Texas.

The indictment alleges that from October 2021 to February 2023, these individuals conspired with others to smuggle migrants from Guatemala through Mexico into the United States. They are accused of recruiting migrants and facilitating their travel while providing instructions for encounters with authorities.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated: "The Justice Department is holding accountable the individuals who we allege preyed on vulnerable migrants and are responsible for this heinous crime that resulted in the deaths over 50 people and injured over 100 more."

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas emphasized the role of DHS agents in bringing those responsible to justice: "Today, the alleged perpetrators of an abhorrent crime — one that resulted in the senseless deaths of more than 50 migrants and the injury of more than 100 others — are being held accountable."

U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani reiterated commitment towards justice: "Our investigation into this catastrophic event... signifies the unwavering commitment...to hold those who engage in human smuggling accountable."

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri highlighted ongoing efforts against smugglers: "Today’s announcement... demonstrates the Criminal Division’s commitment to holding smugglers accountable."

HSI Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger praised collaborative efforts leading to arrests: "HSI remains committed to dismantling human smuggling networks that exploit and mislead migrants."

This operation was conducted by HSI's Global Investigation Group alongside partners from various agencies across multiple countries.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day along with Trial Attorney Danielle Hickman will prosecute this case under JTFA—a task force established by Attorney General Garland aimed at combating dangerous smuggling operations across several countries including Mexico and Guatemala.

Despite these charges being filed against them—underlining allegations only—all defendants remain presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt within legal proceedings.

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