Report calls for reform of Mexican jails

(Vatican Radio) A report by Mexico's National Human Rights Commission about the state of the nation's jails calls for urgent action, as the situation is steadily worsening.

The Report by Mexico's Human Rights Commission doesn't pull its punches. It focuses on increasing inmate influence... so much so that some prisoners have keys to cell blocks!

Staff shortages, lack of security, not enough food, chronic overcrowding and crumbling infrastructure are serious aggravating factors. Plus the disturbing fact that those convicted of crimes are lumped in with others awaiting trial.

The United States often routinely requests extradition for key drug cartel kingpins, because Mexican jails just aren't secure.

The Iguala incident in which 43 protesting student teachers were handed over to gangsters by municipal police in Southern Mexico will also be high on the Agenda for discussions with President Barack Obama, when Mexico's President Enrique Peña Nieto flies to Washington on Monday for a 24 hour visit – his first since becoming President, two years ago.