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Popular Island Near Cancun Will See Safety Improvement Thanks To New Command Center

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Cozumel, the largest and most popular island in the Mexican Caribbean, is set to receive a major boost in traveler safety with the launching of a new command and control center. 

The state-of-the-art law enforcement unit was officially inaugurated this week by the state’s Governor Mara Lezama as Cozumel seeks to tackle rising levels of crime on the popular tropical island.

aerial view of a resort area on cozumel

Cozumel’s otherwise excellent reputation has taken a hit over reports of scams and even violent crime affecting travelers.

Now, officials are redoubling efforts to bolster safety ahead of the island’s anticipated travel surge this summer.

With that in mind, here’s a look at what Cozumel’s new command center means for travelers.

police cars in cozumel parking lot

New Advanced Crime Surveillance Center Launched To Fight Crime In Cozumel 

Cozumel is the rising star of the Mexican Caribbean, attracting hundreds of thousands of monthly travelers thanks to its well-connected international airport, excellent accommodations, and the fact that it holds the coveted Magical Town status. 

Situated 40 minutes off the Mexican Caribbean mainland, Cozumel is a standard inclusion on many Cancun itineraries, offering travelers the chance to witness a different side of Quintana Roo.

the c5 unit in cancun with police officers

Unfortunately, Cozumel has grappled with unusually high crime rates this year, stemming from poor law enforcement coordination and limited public funds.

The resulting intertwining of safety hazards has led to higher levels of scams as well as traffic accidents. 

To remedy the island’s deteriorating situation, this week, officials inaugurated the state-of-the-art C2 Command and Control Center.

The costly new project links dozens of security cameras under one centralized system, providing law enforcement with real-time data on crime. 

cruise ships arriving in cozumel on a sunny day

Cozumel’s brand-new C2 unit links a total of 262 cameras dotted around the island’s main avenues, roads, and pedestrian areas.

It employs the latest advancements in facial recognition technology, aiding officers in arresting criminals. 

In addition to providing officials with a completely revolutionary way to monitor crime on the island, Cozumel’s C2 system will also protect travelers & residents from natural disasters as well as improve the safety of large public events and gatherings.

police patroling a beach in playa del carmen

In fact, the launching of the new command center was so significant that the open ceremony was led by none other than Mara Lezama, the highest-ranking official in the state executive. 

During the inauguration, Ms Lezama said that the C2 center is a stepping stone towards improving Cozumel’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. “We are working every day, together, as a team, as part of this effort to build peace and combat crime,” the governor said during a speech in Cozumel.

a ferry carrying people to cozumel

Although the new C2 unit will primarily work independently, the system is also linked to the mainland’s C4 and C5 networks, providing authorities will a significant boost in efforts to tackle crime. 

Travelers can expect major improvements in terms of safety in Cozumel thanks to the new system, especially in touristy areas like San Miguel de Cozumel. 

Although the new C2 project is a major step forward in improving safety on the popular island, travelers should still continue to exercise caution when visiting the idyllic destination. 

A police pick up truck in Playa del Carmen

From booking accommodation via a reputable platform like Booking.com to sticking to guarded areas, travelers should read up on the latest safety updates prior to heading to Cozumel.

Cozumel is currently the most popular island in the Mexican Caribbean, with direct ferry connections to Playa del Carmen, including a new Xcaret route which began operations this year.

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Gaby

Wednesday 8th of May 2024

Instead of spending billions on a worthless train, they should use that money for security, paying olive more, so they don't turn out to be the criminals.