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A new migrant caravan formed and began moving northward from Mexico’s southern border shortly after authorities disbanded a previous one. The group’s primary objective was to reach the United States before President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20.

Approximately 2,000 migrants launched their journey from Tapachula, Chiapas, early Monday morning, with Mexico City as their intermediate destination. The urgent push northward was motivated by Trump’s campaign promises of strict immigration policies.

The group maintained a steady pace throughout the day, taking brief breaks along their route. One such rest stop occurred in the town of Huixtla, where participants recuperated in a local park for over an hour before resuming their trek.

During the journey, a Mexican immigration officials had offered him a 15-day travel permit for $500 USD. This document would enable bus or plane travel to any border city. The migrant explained that these permits typically require a CBP One app appointment and are usually free, but processing can take months. According to him, the agents promised immediate permit issuance for the fee, allowing border arrival before Trump’s presidency began.

This new caravan emerged just two days after Mexican officials disbanded another group in southern Mexico, offering them transportation assistance, aid packages, and support with asylum applications. Mexican immigration authorities addressed accusations about the previous caravan’s dissolution, emphasizing that they had only provided assistance and transportation, without using force or threats.