Mexico: Police strike launched in Cancún November 6

Event

On Tuesday, November 6, municipal police officers in Cancún launched a strike to demand the removal of a senior police officer accused of mistreating fellow police officers and maintaining connections to organized crime networks. Tourist and transit police continue to operate as usual and members of the federal police have stepped in to patrol the streets. Associated protests and demonstrations, as well as consequent transportation disruptions, are to be expected in the coming days and weeks.

Context

A senior law enforcement officer in charge of the office of the Municipal Secretary of Public Security in Cancún claimed that disciplinary actions would be taken against those who initiate work stoppages and engage in disorderly conduct. The official, Jesús Pérez Abarca, was forcibly removed from his office in the city's police headquarters during protests on November 6 denouncing the disciplinary measures that he intended to implement, which were perceived to amount to mistreatment of fellow police officers.

Advice

Individuals in Cancún should monitor developments to the situation, avoid any related demonstrations, and use alternate means of transportation once the strike resumes.