Ex Mexico’s Exodus

The problems created by waves of illegal immigrants leaving Mexico for the United States are very real.   Every succeeding   year sees an increase in the amount of those caught while trying to cross.   One must ask why does such a wealthy developing country,   with mineral resources and oil reserves,   and a population of nearly 100 million people and a rich culture dating back to the 1500’s,   need to have economic and social difficulties that force such a large exodus every year?   And why does the established government of Mexico seem incapable of solving this issue?


            Border agents called “Federal Prevention Police” have proved inadequate in stopping the flow of Mexicans going north.   The 700 lawmen posted along the border have done little to break up the “polleros” or border-traffickers.   The United States has thousands of Border Patrol agents stretched along the entire U.S.-Mexican border and Mexican border towns have extra police stationed at strategic points to curb the flow.   But many people making the crossing die in the attempt;   mostly due to exposure but some are outright murdered. Vigilante gangs have formed in many southern states hunting down illegal Mexicans, and local Militia groups have also contributed to the violence done to those apprehended entering the U.S.   Those caught by the police agencies are lucky indeed.   However,   more than 320,00 make it across by eluding the authorities on both sides of the border every year. Many of these unfortunates meet a deadly end.   Last year 356 died trying to enter illegally.   The perpetrators are rarely caught or punished. (Immigration-Mexico P.1,2)


            The people coming across illegally do not do so for free. An illegal crossing comes at a price. And many smuggling rings operate on both sides of the border.   The illegals have paid money either to a pollero or to the local police or both.   Currently the price to cross ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 for a ride into the U.S.   Many...