Rehabilitation Centers in Mexico Accused of Abuse and Exploitation

In 2014, an audiovisual project was commissioned to document the harrowing experiences of individuals involuntarily confined in Mexican rehabilitation centers, often referred to as 'granjas' or 'anexos'. These centers, intended to aid those with substance abuse issues, have been reported to engage in abusive practices, raising significant concerns about their operations and the welfare of their detainees

The investigation, as reported by Cáñamo, uncovered a pattern of exploitation and abuse in these centers located in places like Mexico City and Tijuana. The project gathered testimonies from a diverse group of people, including those from low-income backgrounds as well as middle and upper-class individuals. The common thread was the involuntary nature of their confinement, often under false pretenses or through coercive means, leading to severe human rights violations

Many of these facilities operate under the guise of social aid but are, in reality, profit-driven enterprises. Detainees are often subjected to inhumane conditions, including overcrowding and poor nutrition. Reports describe sleeping arrangements akin to 'sardines in a can' and meals that are unpalatable, with terms like 'swamp soup' and 'bear broth' highlighting the dreadful food quality. Such conditions are compounded by physical and psychological torture used as 'therapy', including beatings and waterboarding-like practices

In Tijuana, an interview with a former detainee named Julia revealed systematic sexual abuse by the center's director, a fate shared by many female inmates. These centers maintain strict communication controls, preventing detainees from reporting abuses. Even during family visits, any attempt to speak out is often suppressed by staff, ensuring that the exploitation remains hidden from the outside world

Financially, these centers are lucrative, operating in rent-free locations and receiving donations while charging families around 500 pesos weekly. They further exploit detainees by leasing them to degrading television programs. Despite their clandestine operations, these centers advertise openly, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and oversight to protect vulnerable individuals

The revelations about these rehabilitation centers underscore the urgent need for reform and accountability within Mexico's addiction treatment industry. As the public becomes more aware of these abuses, pressure mounts on authorities to enforce regulations and protect the rights of those seeking help. The complete documentary detailing these findings is available at www.cupihd.org/portal/scroll/ay-padrino-no-me-ayudes/