Mexico’s expert search-and-rescue team arrives in Colombia to help with rescue efforts

A 45-member team of highly skilled Mexican search-and-rescue experts, known as the Azteca International Rescue Brigade or Topos, has arrived in Colombia to assist with rescue efforts following a devastating 7.4 earthquake. The team, led by legendary rescue specialist Héctor, confirmed their arrival in the South American country via social media. They expressed their readiness to lend their hands, knowledge, and hearts to their Colombian brothers and sisters, urging Colombians to stay strong.

The Mexican brigade traveled directly from Venezuela, where they were already participating in earthquake relief operations following a series of earthquakes in early June. They reached the Colombian city of Cali over 30 hours after the disaster, but within the critical 48-hour window for locating survivors trapped under collapsed buildings.

Initially, the Colombian government, led by far-right President Abelardo de la Espriella, rejected Mexican assistance citing "sovereignty" and insisting that Colombians had the emergency under control. However, the Topos respected Colombia's refusal and waited for a new Damage and Needs Assessment. By Wednesday morning, they were able to confirm their presence on social media, declaring, "We are here, Colombia!"

The team is equipped with advanced technological tools for search operations, including infrared cameras designed to locate potential victims buried under rubble. The earthquake's epicenter was in San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó, in southwestern Colombia. Other departments affected include Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, Quindío, and Caldas. As of Wednesday, the official death toll stood at least 240 victims, although the federal government reported 188 fatalities.