Mexican authorities announced on Thursday that 34 migrants who had been kidnapped from a bus in the northeastern state of Nuevo Leon, bordering the United States, were rescued by the police.

The incident occurred in Los Medina, a village near the city of Doctor Arroyo, according to official sources. On Wednesday, the bus was discovered in Nuevo Leon, but the two drivers were reported missing.

In a statement issued by the central San Luis Potosi State Attorney General’s Office, it was revealed that the operation to rescue the abducted migrants lasted over six hours. The efforts successfully led to the liberation of 10 men, 14 women, and 10 children.

The incident highlights the escalating involvement of organized crime in the trafficking of migrants en route to the United States. This surge in criminal activity can be attributed to the recent termination of a COVID-era border policy that allowed U.S. authorities to expel migrants swiftly.

Mexican authorities remain committed to addressing the challenges posed by human trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of migrants traversing the country. The rescue operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to combat criminal networks involved in such activities.