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Cancun Launches Massive Security Operation To Protect Travelers Ahead Of Easter

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Easter is one of the busiest times for resorts in Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean, and this year is no exception.

Well over a million travelers are projected to flock to the sun-soaked region over the following weeks, prompting authorities to launch a massive security operation to safeguard visitors.

Aerial view of Cancun's resort zone with travelers on beach

Combined with recent U.S. travel warnings, Mexican Caribbean officials have all the more reason to take the matter seriously.

There will be an estimated 5000 law enforcement personnel – including troops and police officers, among others – patrolling busy touristy areas this spring.

Cancun Officials Announce Massive Security Operation

Every year, millions of travelers visit Cancun during Spring Break and Easter. This year, the coastal resort city is gearing up for one of the busiest seasons on record as travel numbers continue to pick up.

Shot of the C5 operation centre in Cancun with a police officer

Alongside record amounts of sargassum seaweed, safety is one of the top issues that preoccupy travelers.

This is all the more so with rising crime rates, which have resulted in countries like the U.S. warning their citizens about traveling to Cancun and other Mexican Caribbean hotspots.

To remedy these concerns, officials have put together one of the most comprehensive security operations on record. Involving more than 5000 law enforcement personnel, the mission’s goal is to prevent crime from affecting visitors.

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National Guard troops patrolling a beach in Tulum

During the course of the special security operation, which is set to last for several weeks, travelers can expect more security officials to be more visible in popular touristy locations.

Law enforcement will regularly patrol Cancun’s main public beaches, commercial plazas, nightlife venues, bars, and restaurants. 

11 different municipalities – including Benito Juárez (Cancun) – are participating in the initiative, which is being led by Quintana Roo’s governor Mara Lezama.

Together with deployments stemming from the National Guard, the Mexican Navy, and the Mexican Army, the massive undertaking involves complex coordination. 

Tulum Hotels And Police Add More Security Cameras To Increase Tourist Safety

Authorities will also set up checkpoints on busy roads and will carry out inspections at random to deter criminals.

In addition to all this, the Mexican Caribbean’s C5 security complex will also monitor CCTV cameras, an initiative that offices have expanded in recent months. 

Cancun's busy nightlife area with police cars and light

Fortunately, despite a recent rise in crime rates, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum remain some of the safest destinations for travelers in Mexico.

Visitors staying in all-inclusive resorts are unlikely to face serious forms of crime, which mostly affect local residents.

Meanwhile, Cancun’s popular Blue-Flag beaches that dot the city’s resort zone are also set to receive more reinforcements from the Red Cross and Cancun’s firefighter department.

While city beaches are generally safe, there have been several cases of drownings this year, and travelers are being warned to keep an eye on strong currents and unpredictable weather. 

A police officer conducting a spot check on a Cancun car

Travelers Are Reminded To Follow Basic Safety Precautions

If you’re one of the over a million travelers expected to visit Cancun this Easter, make sure to be aware of essential safety tips.

When it comes to accommodation, travelers are urged to stay in all-inclusive resorts, which have strict safety protocols to keep guests safe.

Officials have been increasingly vocal about enjoying Cancun’s beaches safely. Several cases of drownings this year have prompted officials to increase the number of on-duty lifeguards.

During Easter, volunteers from the Red Cross will also join forces with Cancun lifeguards to keep an eye on avid swimmers.

A Cancun police car parked on a local road

When it comes to Cancun’s bustling nightlife, make sure to party in moderation, avoiding excessive alcohol intake.

It goes without saying that Mexico has some of the harshest drug laws in the world, which carry heavy penalties for illegal possession or consumption. 

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John B

Sunday 2nd of April 2023

It's the local police in Cancun that are the problem. They had a checkpoint set up between the airport and the hotel zone and were shaking down tourists for money last month. Adding more police probably won't fix that.

Richard

Monday 3rd of April 2023

@John B, yes...in early February we were one of the unlucky ones