The prestigious international news network BBC reviews security in Merida….
Is Merida truly a paradise? If we compare it with places where there are often “narcobloqueos”, confrontations between hit-men and military forces or massacres, the answer is yes. And the Mexicans reinforce this belief in so many ways like the old phrase that many people still use: “If the world ends, I will move out to Merida”.
The joke reflects the historical relationship of the city with the rest of the Mexicans. For a long time the region remained virtually isolated from the country. The area developed its own customs and a rhythm of life that still exists among its inhabitants.
(Photo; BBC Mundo)
In Mérida, life is different.
“Here you can still leave the door of your house open and nothing is lost, but it is because we all take care of each other,” Gloria Menéndez, an employee at a clothing store, told BBC Mundo, “In our neighborhood we are all very aware.”
The situation of this city of 1.5 million inhabitants is different from that of other country’s states and cities. For the Merida citizens the situation of the neighboring states like Quintana Roo is an example of what they do not want to be.
(Photo; BBC Mundo)
Another inhabitant says that the most frequent crimes in the White City are robberies without violence. Drugs are also sold, especially marijuana, although according to the Attorney General’s Office (PGR), it is a small-scale distribution, known as narcomenudeo.
High-impact crimes are even smaller. The homicide rate is 2.4 per 100,000 inhabitants. In states such as Colima, in the west of the country, the figure is 84 per 100,000 Mexicans. Therefore, when a serious crime occurs, there is scandal.
To read the full article in Spanish click here
Source: www.bbc.com
1 comment
I love this part of Mexico. We go almost every winter. But, I disagree with leaving your doors unlocked. We were robbed twice and the doors were locked. Petty crime is high especially along the beech in Progreso. So, you have to make sure the place you rent is secure. We love the people and all the culture . And, it is safer than where I live here in Nova Scotia.Just be aware of your surroundings and don’t be too flashy!