As Mexico gears up to host the World Cup this summer, the country is implementing extensive security measures to ensure the safety of millions of international visitors. The government has launched Plan Kukulkan, a comprehensive strategy involving nearly 100,000 security personnel across Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, the three host cities. This initiative aims to safeguard fans and maintain Mexico’s public image despite its history of cartel violence and crime.
Security Measures in Host Cities
Mexico City, which will host five World Cup matches including the opener on June 11, is considered one of the safest areas in the country, boasting the highest per capita police presence and security cameras. However, tourists may still face street-level crimes such as pickpocketing and scams. Authorities are deploying approximately 56,000 officers, including traffic police, special units, and a tourist police force, to mitigate these risks.
Guadalajara, plagued by cartel violence and disappearances, is under the grip of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. Despite this, experts suggest that visitors are more likely to encounter petty theft and fraud rather than high-level crimes. Monterrey, another host city, faces similar challenges with organized crime, including drug trafficking and extortion. However, the impact on tourists is expected to be minimal, with street-level crimes posing the primary threat.
Broader Concerns and Criticisms
While the World Cup is expected to bring economic benefits, it has also sparked criticism from locals who feel that the government prioritizes the safety of foreigners over its own citizens. This sentiment is particularly strong among those affected by the crisis of missing persons. Protests have been held to demand more resources for domestic issues, highlighting the ongoing challenges Mexico faces beyond the tournament.
Despite these concerns, experts believe that Mexico’s major cities will largely be safe for foreigners during the World Cup. However, once the event concludes, the underlying issues of crime and violence will persist, leaving residents to navigate these challenges without the added security measures in place for the tournament.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
