Mexico’s Ambassador Visits ICE Detention Centers Following Cage Controversy

What did Ambassador Lazzeri do in his first 100 days?

Roberto Lazzeri published a message marking his first 100 days as ambassador in Washington. He did so through his X account.

In that message, he stated that defending the Mexican community has been his priority. He said he acted under direct instruction from President Sheinbaum.

Lazzeri visited the Prairieland and Montgomery centers in Texas. He also toured Caroline Detention Facility, located in Virginia.

There he heard testimonies from people who, for the most part, crossed without documents. He characterized family separation as «the greatest tragedy,» according to his X post.

Additionally, he held direct dialogue with ICE authorities in Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta. The objective was to strengthen consular protection for detained nationals.

What did Sheinbaum say about the cages at Alligator Alcatraz?

In her morning press conference on Wednesday, September 30, Sheinbaum addressed the issue. She said she had not received information about Mexicans detained in cages.

A reporter reminded her that she had previously said that consuls reported normalcy. When asked if she would request a report, she responded: «Yes, of course,» during the morning briefing.

The president assured that there is now more information than before. Through the Mexico te Abraza program, nationals are asked about mistreatment they suffered.

With those testimonies, she explained, formal complaints are filed. She also stated that the government has made public complaints about Mexicans who died in detention.

Sheinbaum acknowledged that in some cases mistreatment did occur. She added that today it is easier to access detention centers.

What did the report on the metal cages find?

The controversy arose following a report from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG). According to CNN, 79 detainees went through small metal enclosures.

This occurred between July 17, 2025 and January 18, 2026. The periods of confinement varied between minutes and almost two hours.

The spaces measured approximately 1.6 square meters (18 square feet). Staff called them «calm areas,» according to the reported findings.

The OIG indicated that these spaces had locking mechanisms. Additionally, it found at least one case where they could have been used as a disciplinary measure.

The agency described this practice as distinct from anything observed in ICE facilities. It also found violations in hygiene, medical care, food, and safety.

What did DHS respond regarding these accusations?

A DHS spokesperson defended the center’s management in the face of the allegations. He said it complied with the same federal standards as previous administrations.

That statement was delivered to CBS News. The spokesman specifically mentioned the Biden and Obama administrations as reference.

The detention center was closed in June. However, investigations into its prior operations continue.

What remains to be known about detained Mexicans?

A report that Sheinbaum said she would request remains pending. The Foreign Ministry and consulates will be key to confirming whether there were Mexicans among the 79 detainees.

For now, the president indicated that there are no reports from nationals on this matter. The case continues to generate attention between both governments.