Jorge Álvaro Ochoa, President of the Baja California State Human Rights Commission (CEDHBC), stated last Friday that the agency lacks the authority to enter rehabilitation centers, even when irregularities are reported.
He acknowledged the work of civil society organizations dedicated to assisting individuals suffering from addiction, noting that this disease affects not only the city but the entire country—and even the United States—and therefore requires proper attention. However, he warned that abuses are being committed against patients interned in some of these facilities.
The CEDHBC President acknowledged that there is concern regarding the manner in which the group known as the “Patrulla Espiritual” (Spiritual Patrol) carries out detentions.
When asked whether the “Patrulla Espiritual” faces any formal complaints regarding physical abuse, the Commission head confirmed that a recent complaint has been filed by an individual who visited the agency’s offices to report having been subjected to torture while inside the rehabilitation center.
Ochoa reiterated that while the Commission does not possess the authority to directly supervise these establishments, it does have the mandate to scrutinize the actions of competent authorities, verify that these facilities hold the necessary permits, and monitor the investigations being conducted by the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding the complaints filed.
In conclusion, Jorge Álvaro Ochoa mentioned that a meeting was held this morning with the Municipal President and the CEDHBC Regional Inspector. During this meeting, the necessity of upholding human rights within these centers was reiterated, and the public exposure and physical abuse of individuals suffering from addiction were condemned.
