Mexican rescuers defy bureaucracy to save lives in Colombia

The Mexican rescue organization "Topos Azteca" defied international protocols and bureaucratic procedures to assist in Colombia's earthquake emergency, prioritizing immediate aid over official approvals.

Led by Héctor 'El Chino' Méndez, the volunteers bypassed governmental endorsements and international certifications, asserting that their actions are guided by "heart, solidarity, love, and empathy" rather than UN regulations. Méndez emphasized the group's autonomous approach, stating, "We Topos do not follow UN regulations; we follow the heart, solidarity, love, and empathy." He also declared, "I don't ask for permission," highlighting their rapid intervention strategy with lightweight equipment.

The collective stressed that rescue work must remain strictly humanitarian, rejecting any notion of it being a source of profit or publicity. "We don't live off this, we live for this; rescue is humanitarian work, not an industry of death," Méndez stated. He also noted that other Mexican groups, like 'Topos Tlatelolco,' did not join the effort in Colombia.

Despite Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's past involvement as a university rescuer, Méndez preferred to maintain the group's independence from federal government logistics and transport. This distance, he believes, preserves their autonomy and avoids official red tape. During their mission in Colombia, the "Topos Azteca" received support from the local population and a network of volunteers who helped them quickly obtain essential equipment like thermal cameras and concrete-breaking tools. The rescuers endured long hours, managing exhaustion through hydration, rest, and internal discipline to cope with the emotional toll of working amidst destroyed buildings and victims.

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No se vive de esto, se vive para esto; el rescate es un trabajo humanitario, no una industria de la muerte