A local report has found that Haitian refugees attempting to enter the United States in Del Rio, Texas, were subjected to border patrol agents on horseback swinging reins like whips.
The immigrants were attempting to cross through the Rio Grande when the incident occurred, the El Paso Times reported.
"Let's go! Get out now! Back to Mexico!" border agents reportedly yelled from their horses.
Videos have gone viral of agents swinging their whips and charging men and women on their horses as they attempt to get back to an encampment under the international bridge in Del Rio.
Immigrants were buying food and water in Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, when they were met by the agents. Some of them attempted to shield themselves from the whip-like reins with their hands.
Related
After a few minutes of interaction, the agents retreated, allowing the migrants to return to their camps where well over 10,000 are waiting, hoping to gain asylum in the United States.
On Sunday, it was reported that U.S. and Mexican officials discouraged the immigrants from approaching the border, warning that they would see a rapid removal to Haiti, the El Paso Times reported.
Raul L. Ortiz, the U.S. Border Patrol Chief, shared that the border patrol will be increasing the number of Title 42 flights "to expel individuals to Haiti and other countries of origin."
Related
Even though international law protects the right to seek asylum, the Title 42 public health ordinance allows for rapid expulsion without the opportunity to seek asylum.
"Migrants attempting or considering making the journey to our border should know that we are still enforcing Title 42 order." Chief Ortiz said. "They will not be allowed to enter the United States. They will be removed, and they will be sent back to their country of origin. Our partners in the State Department are working to ensure there is adequate support when they land in Haiti."
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki shared that she had seen the footage, calling it "horrible to watch." She said the White House is continuing to look into the situation and condemned the use of 'whip-like cords.'
There is still no exact plan on what will be done with the immigrants as some expect the number to grow from 10,000 to 20,000.
