Mexican Government Presents National Security Strategy

Omar García Harfuch, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, unveiled Mexico’s National Security Strategy, structured around four core pillars: addressing root causes, strengthening the National Guard within the Defense Ministry, bolstering intelligence and investigative efforts, and coordinating closely with the Security Cabinet and state governments.

In the presence of President Claudia Sheinbaum, Harfuch asserted that the strategy would prioritize vulnerable families and steer young people away from crime and criminal recruitment. This initiative includes creating a new Prevention Subsecretary position within the Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC), to be headed by Esthela Damián Peralta.

To fortify the National Guard, Harfuch noted plans to leverage its 133,000 personnel in collaboration with the Defense Ministry to ensure the Guard’s long-term effectiveness. “We are using Defense Ministry resources so the National Guard can grow stronger, regardless of time constraints,” he stated.

In terms of intelligence and investigative advancements, the strategy emphasizes data analysis to identify crime patterns and develop targeted approaches in high-crime areas, aiming to dismantle criminal organizations more effectively. Harfuch also announced the establishment of a new Police Intelligence and Investigation Subsecretary, equipped with technology to track criminal networks. “This isn’t just about reacting to crime but anticipating it,” he remarked.

Harfuch underscored the need for institutional and state-level collaboration, saying, “Security is a challenge that demands shared responsibility and a unified response.” The National Intelligence System will also be enhanced, integrating naval, military, and financial intelligence for cohesive use in investigations.

The SSPC Secretary added that regional crime assessments will be conducted to implement targeted prevention measures, including a program to counter extortion and deploy specialized units.

President Sheinbaum highlighted a focus on prevention, root causes, intelligence, and strategic presence inspired by a thriving Mexico City program in which all agencies participated. She noted, “The Ministry of the Interior will assist us in Guanajuato, sending full support teams from agencies like Labor to help residents and expand resources to keep youth away from crime.”

Additional Key Initiatives:

1. Tracking the prosecution of crucial detainees.
2. Establishing a national evaluation system for all 32 state police forces.
3. The Secretary of Security held discussions with the Governor of Guanajuato.
4. Creating a new Police Intelligence and Investigation Subsecretary.
5. Consolidating the National Intelligence System, spanning naval, military, and financial sectors.