**Tecate Police Department to Undergo Purge: 10% Fail Trust Exams**
In Tecate, around 10% of the nearly 200 local police officers have not passed their trust and confidence exams, as revealed by Mayor Román Cota Muñoz. During a recent press conference broadcasted on social media, the mayor announced the establishment of the Disciplinary and Honor Commission for the Municipal Police, aimed at thoroughly evaluating and improving the force’s integrity.
“Our goal is to reform the municipal police, enhance their dignity with a positive perspective, equip them with the necessary tools and training, and ensure that they operate within the legal framework,” stated Cota Muñoz. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address crime in the region, which is heavily linked to organized crime activities such as human trafficking, fuel theft, and the smuggling of arms and drugs across the border.
To support these efforts, the city council has allocated 762 million pesos for 2025 to invest in security equipment and technology. Furthermore, a collaboration with the Baja California Security Secretariat has secured 50 spaces in the Police Academy for new recruits and existing officers who haven’t yet undergone formal training.
Cota Muñoz emphasized the importance of all officers completing their exams, expressing a commitment to maintaining a trusted and efficient police force. “Our aim is to ensure all personnel pass their trust exams so we can have a vetted police force free from scrutiny,” he declared. He acknowledged that security remains the most challenging issue for his administration.
The vital need for reform comes in the wake of 85 homicide investigations being opened in Tecate as of September. The mayor attributes the majority of serious crimes in the area to organized criminal operations.
**Related Developments in Baja California’s Security Sector**
In parallel news, Tijuana is set to experience a new era in public security following the approval of a significant budget for 2025. The city plans to reintroduce body cameras on police uniforms and vehicles as part of efforts to enhance accountability and transparency within the force.
Additionally, there has been an increase in inspections of manufacturing plants in response to recent accidents, with authorities aiming to ensure compliance and safety in the industry.
Furthermore, Tecate has launched a new module to help regularize “chocolate” cars, or undocumented vehicles, assisting with 12 registrations daily at the IMOS facility in Tijuana.
These collective initiatives reflect a broader regional effort to tackle crime, enhance public safety, and boost administrative efficiency across Baja California. As 2024 progresses, local governments are gearing up to face security challenges head-on with reformative measures and strategic planning.