USW Files Complaint Over Union Official’s Arrest in Mexico

[Judi Lynn]

USW Files Complaint Over Union Official’s Arrest in Mexico
by James Parks, Jan 28, 2011

The United Steelworkers (USW) is filing a formal protest with the U.S. State Department after USW Sub-District Director Manny Armenta was arrested this week by Mexican border guards while on his way to meet with lawyers for the Los Mineros Mexican miners union.

On Jan. 24, a customs officer stopped Armenta’s car, which is leased by the union, accusing him of driving a stolen vehicle. He presented documentation, but to no avail. Armenta was arrested, detained overnight and released early Jan. 25 after posting a bond of 80,000 pesos (about $7,750).

The car was impounded, and it has not been returned. His wallet was taken from him in the arrest, but later returned, minus $700 in cash, according to the union.

The USW is helping the members of Los Mineros, who have been on strike since July 2007 at Grupo Mexico’s Cananea mine, address dangerous safety conditions.

More:
http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/01/28/usw-files-complaint-over-union-officials-arrest-in-mexico/