### Individuals Wanted for Forced Disappearance Detained in Ensenada
In a recent development, the State Citizen Security Secretariat of Baja California (SSCBC) successfully detained two individuals wanted for the crime of forced disappearance in Baja California Sur. These arrests followed an intensive surveillance and investigation operation conducted by the State Citizen Security Force’s Coordination of Interinstitutional and International Relations.
The arrest occurred in the Bahía area of Ensenada, a port city where the authorities had been conducting investigative works. The suspect duo, engaged in a heated argument on a sidewalk by the intersection of Abasolo and Diamante avenues, drew the attention of the on-patrol officers. As officers approached, the male suspect attempted to enter a residence, leaving the woman behind. Despite initially declining assistance, they were identified as Katie June “N” (35) and John Joseph “N” (53), both holding dual citizenship in the United States and Mexico.
Further verification through the Baja California Citizens’ Center of Control, Command, Communication, Computing, Quality and Citizen Contact (C5) revealed active warrants for their arrest originating from Los Cabos, issued by the Baja California Sur State Attorney General’s Office (FGEBCS) in September of 2024. This resulted in their immediate apprehension and subsequent handover to the Baja California State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) for pending extradition procedures to the relevant authorities.
The operation also involved two minors, children of the detainees, who have since been placed under the care of the appropriate child protection services. In line with their legal rights, detainees were permitted to contact their relatives and the American Consulate.
### Related News: Rise in Forced Disappearance Cases Sparks Concern
Separately, authorities across Mexico are grappling with an alarming increase in forced disappearance cases, raising significant concerns within the community and government. Recent reports indicate that Baja California has seen a troubling escalation in such incidents, with various law enforcement agencies intensifying their efforts to combat this humanitarian crisis.
A national task force has been proposed, aiming to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and streamline communication between states to track, arrest, and prosecute individuals involved in abduction and forced disappearance crimes. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to address and ultimately curb the prevalence of this criminal activity throughout the region.
Public awareness campaigns and community support programs are also being advocated to empower families of victims and encourage public cooperation with investigators. This strategic approach underscores the need for a unified response to what is becoming a national and international human rights concern.