**Primary Article: Proposing Strict Penalties for Extortion in Tijuana**
Amid a rising trend of extortion in Tijuana, officials are pushing for the crime to carry penalties similar to those for kidnapping. According to the Secretary of Citizen Security in Baja California, Leopoldo Tizo Aguilar Durán, the increase in “cobro de piso” (a type of extortion fee) is not being matched by a corresponding rise in reports from victims to authorities. Many small businesses are paying weekly fees, sometimes up to two thousand pesos, but fear and uncertainty about who is behind these demands keep them from coming forward.
Authorities are working closely with the public prosecutor’s office on a legislative proposal to make extortion penalties as severe as those for kidnapping. This move is intended to reflect the gravity of the crime, which disrupts businesses and instills fear in communities. However, without sufficient reports, officials find it challenging to investigate and prosecute offenders. Durán highlighted the difficulty in addressing the issue due to unclear identification of the perpetrators, as extortionists can easily adopt false identities to scare their targets.
**Secondary Article: Growing Concerns and Efforts to Address Extortion in Tijuana**
In Tijuana, many small businesses face the crippling burden of extortion fees, which significantly impacts their operations and profit margins. The fear of violent repercussions often keeps victims silent, slowing down legal and police actions. This alarming situation is especially prevalent in the eastern zones of the city. Despite the challenges, local authorities emphasize the importance of encouraging victims to report these crimes.
In similar news, the broader issue of crime in Tijuana has led to calls for additional resources in various sectors. For instance, there is an ongoing appeal for an increased budget for libraries and cultural centers to foster community development and deter criminal activities. Meanwhile, the ongoing rehabilitations in public spaces, like the malecón of Playas de Tijuana, have faced delays but continue to be a priority for enhancing the city’s infrastructure and safety.
As the community grapples with these issues, there have also been concerns about the handling of disappearances in Baja California. It’s estimated that over 20,000 people have disappeared in the region, with limited law enforcement resources dedicated to such cases. These pressing issues highlight a need for comprehensive strategies and community support to improve safety and justice in Tijuana.