Tulum Authorities Launch New Initiative To Protect Tourists In Mexico

Recently, it was reported that the US State Department was warning US travelers to avoid Mexico over Spring Break. The reason for the warning was a spike in violent crime in certain areas of the country. Since that time, Cancun has taken action to protect its visitors. Now, authorities in Tulum are also ramping up security efforts to keep tourists safe.

More travel warnings for Americans visiting Mexico

Following in the footsteps of neighboring Cancun, Tulum is taking action to protect tourists from crime by strengthening its zero-tolerance policy. This announcement comes as once again US authorities have again warned citizens against travel to Mexico after four US nationals were kidnapped in Matamoros. Regrettably, that incident led to two murders and a major diplomatic row between Mexico and the US.

While the kidnapping incident was rare, this led to travel warnings and members of congress accusing the Mexican government of not tackling violence. However, the warning led the Mexican President to respond that Mexico is “safer” than the United States. His reasoning was that Americans wouldn’t visit the country in droves if it wasn’t safe for them to do so.

Despite the Mexican President’s statement, the US has once again issued new warnings for around six regions in Mexico, citing violence and crime. However, Quintana Roo is still listed as a Level 2 destination, where there are only moderate risks. Meanwhile, authorities are now taking action to ensure the state remains that way.

Ramping up security in Tulum

Recently, Cancun ramped up its security to protect tourists, leading to neighboring Tulum taking similar preventative measures to let US travelers know they will be safe. However, tightened security in Tulum ahead of peak travel seasons is a common thing. Authorities are known for installing cameras in popular tourist zones and adding panic buttons at bus stops. However, this year local authorities in Tulum are taking action and launching new major anti-crime operations.

Admittedly, Quintana Roo and the Mayan Riviera have always been relatively safe for US travelers. While crime does happen, it is normally centered around suburban areas where police presence is limited. Meanwhile, at Level 2, the state is no more dangerous than other Level 2 locations listed by the US Department of State, including urban centers in some European countries or other developed nations.

While Tulum is considered a low-risk destination, its new mayor, Diego Castañón Trejo, is making it his top priority to protect citizens and tourists alike. The mayor is assisted in his efforts by Ricardo Morales Santo, Lieutenant of Frigate Marine.

Citizen protection patrols

Santo has been sworn in as the new Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection for Tulum. Having commanded a number of marine infantry battalions before, he brings his level of experience to his new posting.

Santo has assured that there will be more patrolling across Tulum in the coming days and assures that his officers will do a good job to protect citizens and tourists alike. Besides increasing patrols, security booths will be set up in the town, manned by marines. Meanwhile, the new officers will join others already serving in Tulum. Between them, they will keep a close eye on suspicious activities in tourist areas. In another measure, bars and entertainment venues will close earlier under new noise control and security laws.

Meanwhile, this isn’t the first time officers have been deployed in Tulum against rising crime rates. In fact, the National Guard was summoned during Spring Break to keep criminals at bay.