### Public Safety Should Not Be in the Hands of the Military: CCSPBC
Public safety should not be under the control of the military but should remain the responsibility of police forces, according to Roberto Quijano Sosa, the president of the Citizen Council for Public Safety of Baja California (CCSPBC). Quijano Sosa made these statements following a heated discussion in the Chamber of Deputies this Wednesday about the incorporation of the National Guard into the Ministry of National Defense (Sedena).
“The issue of public safety should never be managed by the armed forces, which is not only stated by the federal constitution but also by international agreements,” Quijano added.
Quijano Sosa emphasized several reasons why the Council opposes the inclusion of the National Guard into the Armed Forces, highlighting the frequent human rights violations as a primary concern. “Unfortunately, a series of abuses occur due to the training that military personnel have received. While they are welcomed for protection and containment of insecurity, they should not undertake activities that municipal police officers are responsible for,” he explained.
Despite the increased presence of military and National Guard personnel, the crime rates in Tijuana and Baja California have not decreased, according to the CCSPBC president. “Currently, there are more than 7,000 elements from municipal police, state forces, the military, and the National Guard in Tijuana, but this has not resulted in a reduction of criminal activity,” Quijano Sosa clarified.
With the current crime trend, 2024 could become the most violent year for Tijuana, warned the CCSPBC. The involvement of the National Guard under Sedena is not seen as a viable solution to reduce crime rates in the region.
—
### Secondary Article: Legislative Proposal to Reform Public Safety Management
In light of growing concerns surrounding public safety management, a new legislative proposal has been presented to assess the role of various security forces in handling public safety. The reform aims to examine the effectiveness and roles of federal, state, and municipal forces engaged in public safety duties.
Prominent lawmakers and civil society leaders have expressed support for a comprehensive review of current practices. “It’s time to re-evaluate how we manage security to ensure that human rights are protected and that we see a tangible reduction in crime rates,” said a leading legislator during a recent press conference.
The proposal also calls for increased accountability and transparent oversight mechanisms for all security forces involved in public safety operations. This move comes as a response to ongoing public outcry over reported abuses and inefficiencies linked to the integration of military personnel in civil law enforcement roles.
Stakeholders from various sectors, including human rights organizations, local governments, and security experts, will be involved in developing new strategies aimed at enhancing public safety while safeguarding civil liberties.
The proposed reforms are expected to be a significant topic of debate in the coming months, with impacts that could reshape the structure and function of public safety management in Mexico.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.