Cancun Bolsters Security with 600 Navy Marines

In a major effort to strengthen security in Cancun, one of Mexico's most popular tourist destinations, the federal and state governments have deployed 600 members of the Navy (Semar) to the region. The new reinforcements are part of an inter-institutional strategy designed to tackle crime and enhance safety for both locals and the millions of tourists who visit each year.

Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa of Quintana Roo announced the significant security boost, highlighting that this initiative comes with the full support of both the federal government and the Mexican Navy. As part of the operation, four Navy vessels and four jet skis have also been deployed to patrol the coastal waters surrounding Cancun. The objective is to monitor 25 kilometers of coastline, including the Hotel Zone, as well as the nearby areas of Isla Mujeres and Puerto Juarez.

The move comes in response to a troubling trend: criminals have increasingly been using jet skis to commit crimes along the coast. Governor Lezama Espinosa emphasized the importance of maritime patrols in addressing this issue. "The Admiral Secretary (Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles) immediately gave instructions for four Navy vessels and four jet skis to be deployed. The aim is to ensure security both on land and at sea," she stated.

Lezama Espinosa expressed her gratitude to the federal authorities for their swift action, noting that she had personally requested assistance from Secretary Morales Ángeles after incidents where criminals arrived by sea, committed crimes, and fled using the same route. These reinforcements, she explained, demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring that Cancun remains a safe destination for residents and tourists alike.

A Comprehensive Security Plan

This new security initiative is just one part of a broader strategy aimed at curbing crime in the region. Governor Lezama Espinosa revealed that she held a high-level meeting with Omar García Harfuch, Secretary of Citizen Security and Citizen Protection, and the head of Semar, to discuss Cancun's inclusion as a priority city in Mexico's national security plan for the first hundred days.

"The goal is to work as a team," said the governor. "We have a very clear strategy, and I want to make it clear that we have unconditional support. We are in constant communication with the Admiral Secretary, the Secretary of Security, and their entire teams."

The deployment of Navy marines is intended to bolster the efforts of local law enforcement, ensuring a greater presence both at sea and on the streets. Ana Patricia Peralta de la Peña, municipal president of Benito Juárez, explained that the 600 marines would be distributed strategically throughout Cancun, with a focus on high-crime areas. "The marines will be present not only at sea but also patrolling our streets. It's crucial that they cover the entire city, ensuring the safety of our residents and tourists," she said.

The increased security presence aims to reduce crime rates and the perception of insecurity, which has been a growing concern for both locals and visitors. Cancun, while still a major tourist hub, has been grappling with rising crime, and the local government is determined to reverse this trend.

Coordinated Efforts and New Tech for Local Police

In addition to the Navy's reinforcements, the municipal government has committed to providing support for the marines during their deployment. Peralta de la Peña stated that the city would take responsibility for accommodating the 600 sailors, further solidifying the collaboration between federal, state, and municipal authorities.

Moreover, the local government is taking steps to modernize and strengthen its own police force. Peralta de la Peña announced plans to equip all municipal police officers with body cameras, a move designed to enhance transparency and monitor officers' performance in the field. The initiative is part of a larger effort to improve local policing, which also includes a project to "dignify" the police building and increase officers' salaries. These measures are intended to not only improve the working conditions of police officers but also enhance their ability to carry out their duties effectively.

"We are committed to strengthening the Citizen Security Secretariat," said Peralta de la Peña. "The body cameras will allow us to monitor the actions of our police officers, ensuring accountability and building trust with the public. At the same time, we are working on improving the police force's infrastructure and providing better salaries."

Federal Backing and Purging Corrupt Officials

The security strategy has the full backing of the federal government, with both the National Guard and Navy joining forces with the local police. Mayor Peralta de la Peña noted that the collaboration between these agencies will ensure a unified approach to crime-fighting, with joint patrols both in the city and along the coastline.

Governor Lezama Espinosa also revealed that the state is working closely with the Attorney General's Office to root out corruption within law enforcement. "We are conducting a thorough purge of corrupt officials," she said, adding that 290 officers have already been dismissed due to complaints of corruption or other misconduct.

This crackdown on corruption is seen as a vital component of the broader security strategy, as it aims to rebuild trust in the police force and ensure that only dedicated, honest officers are tasked with protecting the public.

A Safer Cancun on the Horizon?

With the arrival of 600 marines, high-tech patrols, and a comprehensive security strategy in place, Cancun is poised to make significant strides in the fight against crime. The joint efforts of the Navy, National Guard, and local police, combined with new technologies and anti-corruption measures, are designed to restore peace and safety to this iconic destination.

For Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa, the message is clear: Cancun is open for business, and safety is the top priority. Whether on land or at sea, criminals will find it increasingly difficult to operate as the city ramps up its security presence and enforces stricter oversight.

As Cancun moves into the next phase of its security plan, locals and tourists alike can look forward to a safer, more secure environment, with the full backing of federal, state, and municipal authorities working together to protect this jewel of the Mexican Caribbean.