**Tijuana Officials Undergo Surprise Drug Testing: Six Test Positive**
Authorities in Tijuana have been conducting surprise drug tests on municipal employees, revealing six positive cases for substance use among government officials. The effort, led by the Municipal Comptroller’s Office, aims to ensure accountability and integrity within the public sector.
Teresita de Jesús Balderas Beltrán, the head of the municipal dependency, disclosed that 500 tests were purchased, with 330 already administered. The surprise nature of the testing was intended to prevent any attempts at detoxification beforehand. While initially scheduled for a single day, the testing period may extend due to many officials still awaiting testing.
Participation in these drug tests is mandatory for public servants, and those testing positive for substances such as benzodiazepines—a medication often prescribed for psychiatric treatments—must present medical documentation to justify their results. Juan Luis González Burgueño, Director of Internal Affairs, emphasized that a positive test might not indicate wrongdoing but could be due to legitimate medical reasons, including psychiatric treatments or weight-loss medications.
Sanctions for any official unable to provide a valid explanation could range from a warning to suspension from their duties. Balderas Beltrán confirmed similar testing efforts will expand next year to include all municipal employees and the city’s 2,500 police officers.
**Related Top Stories from Tijuana**
1. **No Drug Sales Detected in Tijuana Schools: SEE**
The State Educational System has confirmed that drug sales are not occurring within Tijuana’s elementary and junior high schools. This announcement reassures parents and educators concerned about the influence of drugs on minors.
2. **Tough Penalties for Bringing Marijuana Cigarettes Across Border**
Individuals crossing into Tijuana from San Diego with marijuana cigarettes face fines up to MXN 80,000. Authorities continue to crack down on the smuggling of substances across the border.
3. **Methamphetamine Remains Tijuana’s Most Prevalent Drug: IMCAD**
The local authorities are battling a persistent methamphetamine crisis, which remains the most widespread drug in Tijuana. Efforts to curb its distribution and use are ongoing.
4. **New Initiatives for Elderly Street Dwellers**
Tijuana’s administration plans to incorporate elderly homeless individuals into pension programs, even those without documentation, offering them a safety net and better access to resources.
5. **Upcoming Tijuana-Tecate Tourist Train Dates Announced**
The popular tourist train between Tijuana and Tecate will operate on select December dates. Travelers are encouraged to book early to secure a spot on the limited trips available.
6. **Call for Donations to Aid Search for Missing Persons**
A local collective seeking missing family members is appealing for donations, specifically boots and tactical vests, to aid their search efforts. Interested parties can contribute financially to support the cause.
These updates highlight ongoing public policy efforts and community initiatives taking place in Tijuana, addressing various social, health, and safety issues within the region.