### Efforts Underway to Establish Search Cells for Missing Persons in Tijuana
Community groups in Tijuana are actively lobbying for municipal support in creating a dedicated search cell for missing persons, as well as a single-point service area for victims. This initiative arises following the enactment of the General Law on Forced Disappearance of Persons, Disappearance Committed by Individuals, and the National System for the Search of Persons, which came into effect on August 10.
Fernando Ocegueda, the leader of the United for the Disappeared in Baja California Association, explained that during the previous administration, an agreement was made with the former municipal president, Montserrat Caballero, to establish such services. However, the initiative lost momentum and was not further pursued. The newly enacted law outlines responsibilities for municipalities, including the formation of search cells between Articles 34 and 52, prompting a renewed push for these initiatives.
“These service points are designed to provide free birth certificates, death certificates, and all preferential support that the municipality can offer,” Ocegueda stated.
Currently, Mexicali is the only city in the region with an established search cell, thanks to a collaborative agreement set up in 2021 and renewed in 2022. Service points have only been operational in Nuevo León and Coahuila.
The mayor of Tijuana, Ismael Burgueño, expressed his commitment to these efforts. “I have instructed our government secretary to develop and implement strategies and they are already working on a work agenda to engage in dialogue and align with this initiative within our capabilities,” he said.
Juan Manuel Sánchez Rosales, Tijuana’s Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, mentioned that they are undergoing the mandatory legal review to justify the resources requested for the creation of the search cell. This effort aligns with coordinated operations involving the State Prosecutor’s Office and State Commission for Missing Persons to establish a reliable database of missing individuals. The system aims to ensure immediate reporting and response for new cases.
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### Secondary Article: National Framework Strengthens Search Efforts Across Mexico
In a related development, the Mexican government has been strengthening its national framework for addressing the crisis of missing persons. The law, enacted on August 10, aims to create a cohesive approach across the country, bridging gaps between federal, state, and local search efforts.
This law outlines specific responsibilities for municipalities, including establishing local search cells similar to those being considered in Tijuana. The law’s implementation aims to empower local organizations and legal authorities to act swiftly and efficiently, ensuring resources and support are available for affected families.
Since its implementation, various regions have reported progress. In particular, the State of Nuevo León has been proactive with the creation of service points and search cells, serving as a model for other regions. Educational programs and technical support have also been provided to improve the skills and coordination of search and rescue operations nationwide.
With these efforts, the Mexican government’s commitment to addressing the issue of disappearances is clear, promising a future where families no longer have to navigate bureaucratic hurdles alone in their search for missing loved ones.