Playa del Carmen looks to Yucatán: Mercado's security alliance

In a strategic move, Playa del Carmen Mayor Estefanía Mercado met with Yucatán's Secretary of Security, Luis Felipe Saidén Ojeda, to analyze and potentially adopt elements of Yucatán's successful security model.

In a clear sign that she seeks innovative and proven solutions to the security challenge in Solidaridad, Playa del Carmen Mayor Estefanía Mercado has crossed state lines to forge a strategic alliance with the neighboring state of Yucatán, known for its low crime rates.

The key meeting took place in Mérida, as part of the United States Independence Day celebrations, a high-level diplomatic event organized by the U.S. Consulate. There, Estefanía Mercado met with Luis Felipe Saidén Ojeda, the long-time and respected head of the Yucatán Ministry of Public Security (SSP).

The main objective of the dialogue was the "exchange of security experiences." This meeting was not a one-off event, but rather part of the mayor's broader strategy to strengthen security in her municipality, which has also included coordination meetings with the Attorney General of Quintana Roo, Raciel López Salazar.

The decision to look to Yucatán is no coincidence. For years, the "Yucatan Model" has established itself as a national benchmark in security. Its fundamental pillars include:

• Investment in Technology: A robust video surveillance system and security arches (C5i).
• Professionalized Police: Better salaries, benefits, and ongoing training for officers.
• Interinstitutional Coordination: Fluid and effective communication between all security and justice corporations.
• Social Crime Prevention: Programs focused on addressing the causes of violence from the community.

This model has allowed Yucatán to maintain significantly lower crime rates than the rest of the country, making it a case study and a model to follow for other states and municipalities facing security challenges.

Estefanía Mercado's initiative is part of a vision of security built through collaboration and joint efforts. Her administration has emphasized that security is built "with the people" and through coordination with all levels of government.

"The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain a constant channel of communication to ensure that joint efforts translate into tangible results for the benefit of citizens."

By seeking advice and expertise from Yucatán, the mayor of Playa del Carmen is sending a clear political message: she is willing to seek out best practices, regardless of where they are located, to restore peace and tranquility to the residents of Solidaridad.

The main challenge will be adapting the principles of the Yucatecan model to the unique reality of Playa del Carmen. Unlike Mérida, the Riviera Maya faces distinct pressures, such as a massive floating population, a high presence of international tourism, and the operation of transnational criminal groups vying for control of the area.

The successful implementation of any imported strategy will depend on the ability to adapt it to local conditions and on having the necessary budgetary and political support to carry it out in a sustained manner.