Mexican military launches a massive security operation in tourist areas

Tourists visit This summer, the Cancun and Mexican Riviera Maya will be greeted with Ocean Breeze and poolside cocktails as well as heavily armed patrols.

In response to the escalation of cartel violence and crime against travelers, the Mexican government has deployed more than 7,000 troops and security personnel to protect the country’s most popular vacation zone. Since 2021, Mexico has been deploying military and local enforcement to patrol beaches and tourist hotspots.

Michael Brown, a former senior special agent at the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), now global director of anti-narcotics technology at Rigaku Analytical Devices, told Fox News Digital that the military rifle sights could do more than reassure travelers about their safety.

“The fluidity of gang activities, an organized crime in Mexico, is constantly moving from one side of the country to the next,” he said. “Unfortunately, these high-end tourist areas represent a simple opportunity for organized crime to come, steal, steal and rob.”

American tourists at popular holiday spots have increased the risk of being killed and have been robbed

Patrol’s military muscles

This summer, the Mexican government launched an aggressive security campaign at popular tourist destinations in the Quintana Roo province – Home of CancunPlaya del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel.

The initiative, dubbed the “Summer Vacation 2025 Operation,” was officially announced on July 18th and includes the deployment of more than 7,000 security personnel, including members of the National Guard, Navy, Army, state and local police. Operation Summer Vacation 2025 is the largest adjusted seasonal development to date, but follows a multi-year pattern of increasing military engagement in Mexico’s most profitable tourism areas.

The goal is to protect the expected 2 million tourists for the summer and fall months with a coordinated presence of land, air and ocean patrols.

“We do not tolerate abuse, illegal costs or practices that harm individuals. For tourism service providers, I repeat. You are the best ambassador in our state. Your actions, your ethics and your commitment make a difference.” Press conferenceAccording to Spanish-speaking local media.

Brown sees militarization as a red flag rather than a relief.

“You’re sitting on the beach looking at the soldiers. I’m worried that something is going on. It really works against the concept of vacation,” he said. “If I’m sitting on the beach looking at the armed troops, does that really make me relax?”

American tourists warned of an increase in threats at summer hotspots

Concerns about travelling to Mexico as an American are not exaggerated as the US Department of State is being urged to issue warnings in the case of ramp-prolonged crimes against tourists.

Published Agent Level 2 trip Advice to Quintana Roo means that even tourists are touristy, they need to “take care” due to increased risks associated with property crimes, fraud and occasional violence cases.

The US Embassy in Mexico encourages people to remain vigilant at all times, especially in the downtown zones of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum after dusk. Travel alerts also remind visitors of the incident Cartel-related violence And the rival gangs, although not necessarily targeting tourists, have injured innocent bystanders.

“If you go to a place that represents a certain level of danger, you need to plan to mitigate that threat.

Smart Travel

Military patrols may provide some comfort, but Brown emphasized that personal vigilance remains the most effective safety tool for American tourists, especially women traveling alone.

The US updates travel advisories to popular destinations amid the “terrorism horror”: “Increased attention”

Brown is recommended to carry it to tourists Personal GPS TrackerIdeally set a designated check-in time with family members who will be hidden by handbags, bracelets and necklaces.

He too Inspires travelers When staying at the resort, we will only use transport stations by the hotel, and we will pre-verify driver identification and license plates.

When it comes to nightlife, the former DEA special agent suggests never accept drinks from strangers, consuming only drinks open in front of them, leaving the resort alone, especially at night.

For those who are challenging the cruise and those challenging the local town, he recommends leaving all gems, designer items and a large amount of cash on board to avoid targets.

“Make a plan,” he said. “Your consciousness must increase dramatically the moment you get off that plane.”

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Fox News Digital has contacted the US State Department for comment.