### Ensenada Police Officers Charged and Held in Custody
#### Four Officers Face Serious Accusations in Homicide Case
The Baja California Prosecutor’s Office, through the Specialized Prosecutor for Crimes Against Life, has charged and imposed preventive detention measures on four officers from the Ensenada Municipal Police. These individuals face charges of qualified homicide, criminal association, and abuse of authority.
During a hearing held on September 4th, the Judge of Control evaluated the evidence presented by the Public Ministry agent and concluded with the initiation of a criminal process and preventive detention for the four defendants. The judge also established a three-month period for the completion of the supplementary investigation.
The detentions of Carlos Javier “N”, Raúl Miguel “N” and Esteban “N” were carried out on August 29th of this year, following arrest warrants executed by the State Investigation Agency in coordination with the National Defense Secretariat (SEDENA), the National Guard, and the Citizen Security State Force. The fourth defendant, Brayan Isaac “N”, was already detained in the Cereso prison, and the relevant judicial mandate was executed while in custody.
Investigations suggest the four officers are allegedly involved in events that occurred on February 8th, 2024, at the parking lot of “La Principal” hardware store in Francisco Zarco. According to the investigative file, at least two individuals arrived in a gray Honda CRV and fired multiple shots at the victim, a man who was inside his white GMC pickup, resulting in fatal injuries.
It was determined the attackers fled in the same vehicle they arrived in, with the assistance and facilitation of the municipal police officers now detained, among others yet to be identified. The officers allegedly used official units during and after the incident to ensure their escape.
### Related Developments
#### Police Corruption Under Scrutiny in Ensenada
In light of the ongoing case involving the four police officers accused of serious crimes, there has been a broader crackdown on corruption within the Ensenada Municipal Police. Authorities are investigating claims that other members of the police force could be involved in similar criminal activities. These efforts are part of an intensified drive to clean up the force and restore public confidence in law enforcement.
#### Public Reactions
The case has provoked a mixed response from the public. Many residents express relief that steps are being taken to tackle corruption and criminality within the police force, while others voice concern about the potential widespread nature of the problem. Calls for increased transparency and accountability in law enforcement have grown louder.
#### Official Statements
Local government officials have reiterated their commitment to justice and the rule of law. They emphasize that no one is above the law and that all individuals, regardless of their position, will face the full extent of legal repercussions if found guilty of crimes.
### Conclusion
The case against the four Ensenada police officers marks a critical moment for law enforcement in the region. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight is on the mechanisms in place to combat corruption and ensure justice is served, reaffirming that upholding the law applies to everyone, including those tasked with enforcing it.