Paraíso interim mayor targeted in armed attack at her home

The interim mayor of Paraíso, Tabasco, María Elisa Hernández Flores, was targeted in an armed attack at her home in the early hours of Tuesday. Two individuals on a motorcycle fired several shots at the residence in the San Cayetano area before fleeing. While Hernández Flores and her family were uninjured, the official reported having faced prior threats and intimidation since assuming her role.

Hernández Flores took office following the departure of Alfonso Baca Sevilla, who is currently a fugitive facing federal investigations by the Fiscalía General de la República (FGR) for crimes including extortion, torture, and fuel trafficking. Reports indicate that during his administration, approximately 91% of public works contracts were awarded through direct adjudication rather than open bidding.

Tabasco's Secretary of Government, José Ramiro ‘Pepín’ López Obrador, downplayed the incident, stating that the gunfire should not be classified as an assassination attempt. However, the interim mayor has filed a formal complaint and is working with state authorities to establish security measures.