New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez says hundreds of detained immigrants represent the humanitarian consequence of false beliefs that anyone can stay in the U.S.
The Roswell Daily Record reports Martinez made the remarks Saturday afternoon after touring a temporary detention facility in Artesia.
Martinez says the facility is "no place for young mothers and babies."
However, she praised medical staff for caring for immigrants who were severely dehydrated from their journey.
Martinez says a comprehensive immigration plan is needed instead of partial deportations.
Authorities say more immigrants being held in Artesia will soon be sent back to Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador soon as part of a plan for quick removal.
Officials say there has been a recent surge of immigrants, including 57,000 unaccompanied children, along the U.S.-Mexico border.
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Information from: Roswell Daily Record, http://www.roswell-record.com
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