Families protest extreme heat and overcrowding at Mexicali prison

On July 26‑27, families of inmates gathered outside the Centro de Reinserción Social (Cereso) in Mexicali to denounce conditions they described as inhumane. They highlighted that outside temperatures were approaching 50 °C and that many cells housed 16‑20 prisoners with only seven fans available, limiting ventilation. Access to cold water was scarce; inmates often had to purchase ice to obtain chilled water, and bathing opportunities were restricted.

Protesters also complained about chronic delays in judicial hearings, with some inmates waiting up to a year for a court session due to alleged staff shortages. They demanded that authorities install cooling systems or permit families to bring equipment that could mitigate the heat. Some families reported intimidation from prison staff, including threats to restrict visitation rights if protests continued.