Mexico to deploy nearly 100,000 security personnel for world cup amid ongoing cartel violence

Mexico has unveiled plans to deploy close to 100,000 security personnel to safeguard fans and participants during this summer’s FIFA World Cup, as authorities seek to reassure visitors amid persistent drug cartel violence in the country, Sport360NG reports.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada, with Mexico set to stage matches in three cities, Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey, during the competition scheduled from June 11 to July 19.

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state, has recently been affected by violent clashes linked to organised crime. The region has long struggled with cartel activity and reports indicate that more than 12,000 people remain missing in the state.

Authorities say the recent escalation in violence followed confrontations between the Mexican military and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the country’s most powerful criminal groups. The clashes reportedly involved gun battles, road blockades and the burning of vehicles after the cartel’s leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho” was killed during a military operation.

Oseguera Cervantes had been Mexico’s most wanted fugitive and was also pursued by United States authorities, who had offered a $15m reward for information leading to his capture. He was laid to rest on Monday at a cemetery near a military installation in Zapopan.

Despite the security concerns, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Friday presented a comprehensive safety strategy designed to ensure the smooth running of the World Cup. Both government officials and football’s global governing body have insisted that the recent violence will not disrupt the tournament, which is expected to attract millions of visitors.

The initiative, dubbed “Plan Kukulkan” named after the serpent deity revered in Mayan civilisation, will cover the host cities as well as surrounding tourist areas. According to Roman Villalvazo Barrios, head of Mexico’s World Cup coordination centre, the plan involves the deployment of just over 99,000 security personnel.

The security force will include approximately 20,000 members of the military, 55,000 police officers and additional personnel from private security companies. The operation will also feature about 2,500 military and civilian vehicles, 24 aircraft, anti-drone technology and specially trained dogs capable of detecting explosives and other prohibited substances.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed confidence in the host nation’s preparations, saying he feels “very reassured” that Mexico will successfully deliver its share of matches during the tournament.