### 14 Traffic Inspectors Dismissed for Accepting Bribes on Roads Leading to Border
Fourteen traffic inspectors have been dismissed in 2024 for engaging in corruption on roads leading to border checkpoints for crossing into the United States. This information was disclosed by Fernando Sánchez, the head of the Municipal Citizen Security Ministry.
Sánchez noted that periodic and surprise operations have been conducted by the internal inspection agency following reports of such malpractice. These operations revealed that some traffic inspectors were accepting bribes from citizens in exchange for allowing them to bypass the lengthy queues at border crossings, which can last two to three hours.
According to ongoing investigations, citizens have been offering between $20 and $50 to be allowed to cut the line, with a high incidence on the right lane of the Vía Rápida. The problem becomes particularly acute in the early morning hours, as daily commuters to the United States attempt to cross more quickly.
In an effort to combat this corruption, personnel from the Sindicatura Procuradora have been stationed in the area for the past two weeks to ensure that no bribes are exchanged. Around eight traffic inspectors are currently present in the zone.
Sánchez explained that the immediate consequence for any traffic inspector caught in such activities is dismissal, unless the citizen involved files a report with the Sindicatura or the State Attorney General’s Office, which could lead to more severe repercussions following a more thorough investigation.
Given the recent observance of Labor Day in the United States and the consequent increase in traffic towards the border, authorities are keeping a vigilant eye on traffic inspectors. These inspectors are not police officers but are specially trained civilians focused on managing traffic.
Sánchez emphasized that corruption exists on both sides: it is the responsibility of citizens to wait in line and of inspectors not to accept bribes. He urged the public to report any such incidents to the relevant authorities.
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### Follow-Up: Strengthened Measures Amid Rising Border Traffic Concerns
Following the dismissal of the 14 traffic inspectors for accepting bribes, further measures are being undertaken to address the underlying issue of corruption at border crossings. In light of the increased traffic due to the Labor Day holiday in the United States, additional staff from the Sindicatura Procuradora have been deployed to key areas.
Moreover, a joint task force between municipal and state authorities has been established to monitor and curb corrupt practices more effectively. Authorities are also considering the implementation of advanced surveillance systems to better track and document interactions between traffic inspectors and motorists.
Reports indicate an increasing public awareness and willingness to report corrupt activities, bolstered by a new hotline and online platform dedicated to corruption complaints. This has led to a rise in actionable intelligence and more successful operations against corrupt officials.
Looking ahead, the Citizen Security Ministry is planning to introduce more rigorous training programs for traffic inspectors, emphasizing ethical behavior and accountability. This initiative aims to foster a culture of integrity and public trust in the handling of border traffic.
These strengthened measures reflect a broader commitment to eradicating corruption and ensuring a fair and efficient process for all citizens at border crossings. Authorities continue to appeal to the public for cooperation and vigilance in reporting any suspicious activities.