Tijuana Cracks Down on Pass Scams

Efforts to stop illegal sales of medical passes have intensified in Tijuana, with prices soaring over $150. Unauthorized sellers face removal from the registry, a more severe penalty than fines.

### Continued Crackdown on Illegal Sale of Medical Passes: Prices Soar Over $150
**By TJGringo.com**

The Tijuana City Council has intensified efforts to curb the illegal sale of medical passes, as reported by Luis Cañedo Ángulo, the Secretary of Municipal Economic Development. These unauthorized sales have prompted authorities to upgrade inspection booths and launch investigations on social media platforms where these passes are being sold illicitly.

Each legitimate medical pass costs 380 pesos for professionals, but during holidays or periods of high traffic at international border crossings, these passes can fetch more than $150. “I understand the temptation, but this program is not intended for that purpose. If we catch someone, they’re out, regardless of whether they blame the Secretariat; it’s the person who processes the pass who is responsible,” stated Cañedo Ángulo.

Interestingly, the official mentioned that those caught engaging in the illegal sale of medical passes would not face economic sanctions or judicial proceedings. However, they would lose the privilege of being on the registry that receives these passes, which is considered a more significant penalty.

In August, the municipal administration reported revenue of 21 million pesos from the sale of medical passes, marking an increase from the 16 million pesos collected in previous months. The surge in revenue indicates progress in combating the issue. On average, the city issues approximately 1,400 medical passes daily, totaling over 43,000 passes each month.

### Secondary Article: Medical Pass Scam Persists in Tijuana

Despite ongoing efforts, illegal sales of medical passes continue to plague Tijuana. The city administration has modernized inspection booths and is conducting investigations on social media to collect solid evidence against those involved in these illegal activities.

The problem is especially prevalent on holidays and high-traffic days at international border crossings, where the price of these passes can exceed $150. However, officials stress that the real deterrent is not economic sanctions but rather the removal from the registry, which prohibits further access to these medical passes.

In recent months, the city’s efforts have led to increased revenue from legitimate sales, signaling partial success in curbing the illegal market. With around 1,400 passes issued daily, the city remains vigilant in its aim to dismantle this unauthorized trade.

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