MEXICO CITY — Mexico is stepping up security at tourist spots after a shocking shooting incident at the Teotihuacan pyramids, just weeks before the FIFA World Cup. A lone gunman opened fire, tragically killing one Canadian tourist and injuring several others.
This incident raised urgent questions about safety protocols, especially with the World Cup approaching. President Claudia Sheinbaum faced reporters eager to know how the government plans to protect visitors during this global event, which Mexico is hosting alongside the U.S. and Canada.
Teotihuacan is about an hour from Mexico City and was expected to attract many visitors during the World Cup. In fact, local lawmakers had just revived a nighttime light show at the site, which had been paused due to the pandemic. Now, the shooting has cast a shadow on these efforts.
Security expert David Saucedo commented on the implications of this violence. He noted, “Events like this only amplify the negative image of Mexico’s safety,” which contradicts the narrative the government aims to present.
In response to the shooting, Sheinbaum acknowledged that the archaeological site lacked adequate security measures. However, she described the incident as isolated, stressing that such acts are uncommon in public spaces in Mexico.
Interestingly, mass shootings are rare in Mexico compared to the U.S., where gun access is easier. Sheinbaum mentioned that the shooter appeared to be influenced by external sources, like the infamous Columbine massacre in Colorado. “It’s our job to ensure this doesn’t happen again,” she stated.
To address concerns, Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch announced immediate measures to bolster security at tourist sites. This includes increasing the presence of the National Guard and reinforcing surveillance systems to protect both citizens and visitors.
As the World Cup approaches, the government has pledged to ensure safety for fans. Homicide rates in Mexico have declined to the lowest levels in a decade, according to official data. However, recent violence in Guadalajara, sparked by the killing of a top cartel leader, has raised alarms.
Sheinbaum assured there would be “no risk” for attendees at the matches, a sentiment echoed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who expressed confidence in Mexico as a host nation. The government plans to deploy 100,000 security personnel, along with military vehicles and surveillance drones, particularly in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
Still, the Teotihuacan shooting has raised fresh doubts about the government’s ability to control violence during the tournament. Saucedo cautioned that focusing security efforts on tourist areas may leave other crime-ridden zones vulnerable. “The public safety agencies are stretched thin,” he concluded.
The overwhelming response from authorities underscores the challenge of ensuring safety in a country that has battled drug-related violence. As the World Cup nears, all eyes are on Mexico to see how it manages this critical issue.
