Mexico's Yucatán security budget controversy and Chihuahua drug lord capture spotlight state policing

State police in Yucatán have received roughly 1.2 billion pesos in federal funds for security strengthening, with an additional 780 million pesos slated for the current year, yet officers report that training programs have been suspended, protective equipment such as bullet‑proof vests and weapons have not been renewed, and basic facilities are deteriorating. Police also say bonuses have disappeared and only about 14 % of personnel hold the required police certification, making Yucatán one of the lowest‑certified forces in the country.

In Chihuahua, the state security secretariat announced the arrest of Santos V.C., known as “El Cholo,” during a three‑day operation in San Francisco de Borja (June 22‑24). The capture adds to 44 priority targets seized under Secretary Gilberto Loya’s tenure and was accompanied by the seizure of more than 889 long‑guns, 825 short‑guns, high‑power rifles, thousands of ammunition rounds and over 63 million pesos worth of weaponry, representing a significant blow to organized crime groups.