## Security Forces Oversee Valle Sur Mexicali Amid Rising Violence
**Tuesday, September 10, 2024**
In response to escalating violence, the Valle Sur de Mexicali has seen a significant intervention by both state and federal security forces. The decision, implemented due to an attack on state agents, has placed the Fuerza Estatal de Seguridad Ciudadana (FESC) and the Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional (Sedena) in control of the region’s security measures.
Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda of Baja California emphasized that this joint operation is also part of a coordinated security strategy with the state of Sonora. She noted, “The State Citizen Security Force, with reinforcements from Sedena, will take control of the southern valley of Mexicali. This forms part of a broader collaborative strategy with Sonora.”
The necessity of this move became apparent following last week’s ambush, which saw two FESC officers injured while on patrol in Mexicali’s valley. Resulting from their non-response to an emergency call, municipal police from the region were directed to retake their evaluations at the Centro de Control y Confianza (C3).
Governor Ávila Olmeda reflected on past security challenges in Tijuana, noting that current measures are influenced by previous violent incidents. She recalled a July agreement between the Baja California and Sonora governments to implement a unified security strategy in San Luis Río Colorado, where such coordination has already seen success.
Addressing media inquiries, the governor highlighted the unique security situation in Mexicali, driven by ongoing incidents, culminating in the recent ambush. Although there are currently no plans to extend this military oversight to other municipalities, Ávila Olmeda did not rule out the possibility, stating that decisions will be made based on evolving security needs.
## Related Developments
### Ongoing Investigations and Security Challenges in Baja California
**BC Investigates Possible Police Involvement in Criminal Activities**
In light of recent violent events, there are now investigations to determine if municipal police officers in Baja California have connections to criminal activities. This scrutiny is part of ongoing efforts to ensure integrity within the local police force.
**Increased Military Presence in Northern Mexico Discussed**
Additional security measures have seen the destruction of 1,347 firearms by Sedena, highlighting the ongoing efforts to curb violence in the region.
**Challenges in Education Due to Rising Violence**
Impacting broader societal sectors, increased violence has led to significant educational disruptions, with more than 100 students from Cobach abandoning their studies in Tijuana due to security concerns.
As the situation in Mexicali and neighboring areas evolves, the effectiveness and reach of these security strategies will likely continue to be a focal point for both public and governmental scrutiny.