Army in San Antonio

Two camoflouged pick ups with 5 -6 military in each just went east on Ramon Corona. First I have seen them here.

Probably just finished breakfast at Mario's. Or just cruising patrols. I'm thrilled to see their presence everywhere they are.

Passed the station at El Bajio the other day and caught the eye of the guy with the gun in the bunker. I rolled down the window and said "Gracias!". His face lit up like a Christmas tree and he waved.

They were parked outside of el Parque yesterday morning between about 10:30 and noon. They seemed to be talking to the gate guys but no idea what was going on.

In the afternoon they were at Centro Ajijic walking around.

Z

Creating a presence.

Its good to see them here, as a deterrent at least. I have lived in tamaulipas and its normal to see foot patrols in the towns and shopping centres.

It's good news - bad news. Good news for those of us who are here to stay, fulltimers. Not so great news for attracting newbies who may view heavily armed troops as a negative. Hence, not good news for those among us who are trying to sell their homes.

Sideways wrote: Not so great news for attracting newbies who may view heavily armed troops as a negative.

That's an understatement.

Unless you are selling it to a Mexican who is used to these security measures.

I disagree. It depends on how you spin it. It's called national security and any future homeowner here should understand that and be happy it exists - or they shouldn't be moving here!

The military has stations and checkpoints ALL over Mexico! This is one of the few area where it wasn't so prevalent. If you don't believe that then you haven't traveled enough in this country. The coast, the Yucatan, southern Mexico, Oaxaca, northern Mexico, Baja, Michoacan . . .

A military presence is a good thing.

CanuckBob wrote:Unless you are selling it to a Mexican who is used to these security measures.

You don't have to pass thru any military retenes to get to my house in Guadalajara.I doubt the realtors at Lakeside will be using the military checkpoints as a potential selling point.

I spoke to the soldier in charge, at least in charge this afternoon...they are all so young. Went by with my Mexican neighbor who stores things for his program in the bodega, along with SIMAPA, the soldiers are using. He's moved his things to another delegation storage for the meanwhile. The soldier told us that they plan to be here for 'a long while'...because the 'investment', ie. of the guard houses, and other infrastructure...and it would not be worth it to the military to pull them out within a short time. They are provided with food and water by the military. However, fresh fruit and a few extra garafones de agua would be welcome. He said that their presence here is the result of a request by our Mayor (Presidente Joaquin Barrios).

The guy in charge stated that they patrol from Joco to Chapala, and environs....Joco is a large municipio...and will go wherever they feel their presence is needed, and/or if they are called to go somewhere. He said people could leave a note for the soldiers at the checkpoint, if they have noted anyone or anyplace that might be narco related or crime related and they don't want to call. Their patrols also go out in the early mornings and late evenings. He said we are likely to see them anywhere at anytime and to not be surprised.

There is also a greater presence of municipal police...up and down the carretera all day...I was back and forth, back and forth, for hours and always saw at least one or more police trucks and some vialidad...our Mayor and our Delegado (as the other delegados I would hope) are taking our security very very seriously. As I talk to my Mexican friends and neighbors, they are all quite thankful that the security is here, and say they feel less nervous. Many many people have stopped to thank them for being here, wave and give a thumbs up, to the guys at the guard huts....makes them feel appreciated.

These guys work all day under the hot sun, and patrol at night to protect us, and they have low wages, and survive with plain food and just water.
My hat is off to these guys, a little fruit, sodas, cookies or any other snack we can provide can help make their life easier and also as a thankyou .

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that one major local narco has already been arrested, along with one of his cohorts. This did not come from the military, but rather the village "grapevine" I depend on...don't think it's prudent at the moment to mention their names.

Thanks for your posts, mielicita.

I've also noticed a much greater presence of Sate Police lately. A daily presence. La Policia Estatal didn't leave after the usual Semana Santa/Pasqua infusion.

Put it all in a blender and hope for the best.

Well done, Mielicita...good post.

So, I wonder whatever happened to the six police who were arrested? The police chief say's that he does not know if they are still being held or have been sentenced or what...he say's information is being kept from him. Chapala's delegado has criticized the prez. of the municipality for not speaking honestly and with clairity on this subject (this weeks La Pagina) . Lots of people wondering about that.

Thanks, mielcita and Ms. Thang! Excellent reporting.

I pass their station every Saturday and will bring fruit and whatever other goodies I can find for them.

They DO look so young! omg

Ms.Thang wrote:

So, I wonder whatever happened to the six police who were arrested?

Well, this Mexico so don't be surprised if you never find out.

EL REGIDOR GERARDO DEGOLLADO Pide una Explicación El regidor Gerardo Degollado González lamentó la situación que vive el municipio de Chapala en materia de seguridad y criticó al Presidente Mun...


I meant to say "regidor" not delegado. The regidor is ex presidente Degollado, he has a lot more clout and he is asking for an explanation so we just might get one this time. There is some kind of meeting coming up soon and the presidente is going to have to say something...I have a feeling we are not going to like it.

What do you mean, . . .I have a feeling we're not going to like it? Like what?

I think that if and when the status of the 6 police officers is reveled, the news will not be met favorably by the public. There has to be a reason why the president is keeping it zipped .

Yep, bet that's right.

The presidente is going to blow his own horn, and say they are working on it, that is why he brought the army to protect the people as everyone requested. Nobody is going to openly acknowledge a potentially serious situation going on lakeside if it exists .

I guess speculative answers are better than no answers?

I am feeling really sorry for the guys in the bunkers in this heat. It's good to know we can take them cold sodas and something to eat. I'll be dropping things off as I go buy.