**Training Crucial for INM and Municipal Police at Migration Checkpoints**
In Tijuana, the implementation of migration checkpoints at the San Ysidro crossing prompts a call for rigorous training of personnel. Karim Chalita Rodríguez, the president of the Tourism and Conventions Committee, emphasized the need for the Mexican National Institute of Migration (INM) and municipal police to undergo specialized training offered by U.S. experts. “The core element is the training that our staff needs, which should be conducted by U.S. professionals to clarify what documents are acceptable and which are not,” Chalita stated.
The city, in collaboration with the INM, is setting up these checkpoints to manage the flow of people at the border and curb irregular crossings. The strategy aims to relocate the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers who currently conduct document checks to expedited lanes, thereby increasing the efficiency of vehicle movement from 18 to 25 lanes, as explained by Pedro Montejo Peterson, Head of Tijuana’s Economic Development Secretariat.
Chalita Rodríguez pointed out that, although local police officers are already well-trained, it is essential that they understand specific U.S. requirements to ensure a smooth operation at these points. This initiative is not entirely new; a similar approach was briefly attempted by city authorities in November 2023 but was discontinued shortly afterward.
**Secondary Update: Rising Concern Over Fraud Scams Imitating CBP**
In a related development, an increasing number of U.S. citizens are being warned about phone scams where fraudsters pose as representatives of the CBP. The authorities have released several recommendations to prevent individuals from falling prey to these deceitful tactics. Awareness campaigns highlight the importance of verifying any communication that appears suspicious and has not been instigated through official channels. As fraudulent activities escalate, efforts to educate the public on safeguarding their personal information remain a priority.