Oaxaca faces rising organized crime amid local security successes

The security landscape in Oaxaca is experiencing contrasting developments. Organized crime has significantly expanded its territorial presence across the state. While criminal activity was previously discreet and concentrated in specific areas like Salina Cruz and Oaxaca City, criminal organizations have adopted strategies used in Guerrero and Michoacán to capture municipalities. This involves co-opting mayors and police chiefs through bribery or threats. Currently, criminal groups hold presence in 142 of the state's 570 municipalities.

In contrast, the municipality of Santa Lucía del Camino reports a major improvement in local safety. Mayor Juan Carlos García Márquez announced a 95% reduction in high-impact crimes and a 50% decrease in general crime incidence. This shift is attributed to administrative restructuring, increased transparency, and coordination with the state government. Key measures included the implementation of a Command and Control Center (C2) with over 450 surveillance cameras, a 100% salary increase for certified security forces, and the cancellation of permits for high-risk businesses.