The strange and emotionally wrenching case of Alondra Luna captivated the Mexican public this week. In a case of mistaken identity, on April 16 Mexican federal authorities forcibly seized the teenager and sent her to the United States to be "reunited" with a family that was not her own. A public outcry in Mexico forced authorities to administer a DNA tests, which confirmed that Alondra was not a kidnapped child and had, in fact, been removed from her legitimate family to whom she has since been returned. The case, plagued by numerous irregularities, raises questions on how authorities in both countries defend the rights of minors and how Mexico so easily bows to U.S. pressure. Clayton Conn reports from Mexico City. teleSUR
