Quintana Roo Mourns Loss of Security Chief, Governor Pledges Action
The state of Quintana Roo is currently reeling from the shocking assassination of José Roberto Rodríguez Bautista, the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection of Tulum. According to Milenio (2024), Rodríguez Bautista succumbed to his injuries in the hospital after being attacked in the La Veleta neighborhood. The incident is sparking outrage and renewed commitment to combating crime in the popular tourist destination.
Governor Lezama's Strong Response
Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa has responded swiftly and forcefully, condemning the “cowardly crime” and vowing that “there will be no impunity.” Lezama Espinosa is emphasizing that her administration is actively working to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice, stating, «The full weight of the law will fall on those who committed this heinous act» (Milenio, 2024). Her words are intended to reassure the public and send a clear message to criminal elements.
«I recognize the work carried out by the secretary. His dedication and results are evident,» said Lezama Espinosa, highlighting the officer’s commitment to public service (Milenio, 2024). The governor has also reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring the safety and tranquility of all Quintana Roo residents, declaring her purpose of guaranteeing security.
Furthermore, Lezama Espinosa asserted, «We will maintain the strategy of building peace and security in Quintana Roo more firmly than ever. Not a step back to prioritize the tranquility and well-being of our people!» (Milenio, 2024). This strong statement indicates a resolve to intensify efforts to combat crime and maintain order in the region.
Tulum's Mayor Condemns Attack
Diego Castañón, the municipal president of Tulum, echoed the governor's sentiments, condemning the attack as a “cowardly and heinous response to the decisive actions in security matters that have been undertaken in Tulum” (Milenio, 2024). He emphasized the ongoing collaboration between authorities at all levels of government to address security challenges.
Castañón pledged to continue the fight against corruption, impunity, and crime, stating, «We will not be intimidated by these acts of intimidation. On the contrary, we redouble our efforts to guarantee the tranquility and well-being of all our citizens and visitors» (Milenio, 2024). His statement highlights the local government's determination to maintain security despite the recent tragedy.
Details of the Attack and Investigation
According to the Quintana Roo State Attorney General's Office, José Roberto Rodríguez Bautista was attacked by armed individuals in the La Veleta neighborhood on Friday night. Initial reports suggest that the attack occurred around 8:30 PM on the intersection of Avenida 5 and Calle 11. Preliminary information from the Secretariat of Citizen Security indicates that two men on a motorcycle opened fire on the police chief and his escort, who returned fire (Milenio, 2024).
In the ensuing exchange, one of the attackers was killed at the scene, while the other managed to escape. Authorities have launched a large-scale operation to locate the remaining suspect. Rodríguez Bautista was rushed to a private hospital in Tulum and later transferred to a clinic in Playa del Carmen, where he eventually succumbed to his wounds, having sustained at least six gunshot wounds (Milenio, 2024).
Context: Crackdown on Organized Crime
This attack comes amid intensified efforts by the State Attorney General's Office to crack down on drug trafficking groups operating in the region. In recent days, authorities have carried out at least five raids aimed at dismantling criminal cells involved in this illicit activity. Just this Friday, the FGE of Quintana Roo and the Solidaridad Police reported the arrest of three individuals, two of whom were implicated in various homicides in Tulum (Milenio, 2024).
José Roberto Rodríguez Bautista: A Decorated Career
José Roberto Rodríguez Bautista was a Captain of Corbeta in the Secretariat of the Navy (Semar), having graduated from the Heroic Naval Military School (2005-2010). His career was marked by notable achievements in naval operations and public safety. He received several prestigious awards, including the Captain General Gerardo Barrios Medal for academic performance, the Veracruz de Ignacio de la Llave Medal for military excellence, and the John Paul Jones Award from the U.S. Embassy for his proficiency in English (Milenio, 2024).
A History of Service
Throughout his career, Rodríguez Bautista held important positions in security across different states. He served as commander in the Marine Infantry in Islas Marías, director of Police Strategy in Tamaulipas, and head of the Intelligence Cabinet Analysis in the Secretariat of the Navy. He also led the Municipal Police of Monterrey and participated in strategic operations against organized crime (Milenio, 2024). His specialization in Naval Command included training in special operations, parachuting, counterterrorism, and mountain combat.
The ongoing investigation is expected to uncover more details about the motives behind the attack and the identities of all those involved. The commitment from Governor Lezama and Mayor Castañón signals a unified front against criminal elements threatening the safety and stability of Tulum and Quintana Roo.
