### Public Security Should Not Be Managed by the Military: CCSPBC
Public security should be the responsibility of police forces and not the military, according to Roberto Quijano Sosa, president of the Citizens’ Council for Public Security of Baja California (CCSPBC). Quijano Sosa made these statements following a discussion in the Chamber of Deputies about incorporating the National Guard into the Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena).
Quijano emphasized that the issue of public security should never be in the hands of the military, noting that not only does the federal constitution prohibit this, but so do international agreements. He highlighted several reasons why the CCSPBC is against the incorporation of the National Guard into the armed forces, including human rights violations.
“Unfortunately, a series of abuses occur as a result of the training that military personnel receive. They are welcomed to protect and contain insecurity but not to carry out activities corresponding to municipal police officers,” he detailed.
The crime rate in Tijuana and Baja California has not decreased despite the arrival of army and National Guard personnel, Quijano Sosa pointed out. Thus, incorporating them into Sedena will not guarantee a reduction in crimes. He noted, “There are currently over 7,000 elements between municipal police, state force, the army, and the National Guard in Tijuana. This has not resulted in a decrease in criminal activity.”
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### Additional Article: Debate on Military Involvement in Public Security Continues
The debate over whether the military should be involved in public security continues to spark controversy in Mexico. Critics argue that the military is trained for combat situations, not policing, and warn that human rights violations are more likely when military personnel are deployed for public security duties.
For example, recent reports indicate that the presence of the military in various regions has not significantly reduced crime rates. Despite increased patrolling and more robust military presence, incidents of violence and crime remain high in areas like Baja California, Guerrero, and Veracruz.
Furthermore, human rights organizations have raised concerns about the lack of accountability and oversight when it comes to military operations in civilian areas. Cases of excessive force and unlawful detentions have been reported, sparking fears that such actions undermine the rule of law and trust in government institutions.
The ongoing discussion emphasizes the need for a more effective and community-centered approach to public security, relying on well-trained police forces equipped to handle the unique challenges faced by their communities.