Mayor Mercado Oversees Police Leadership Change in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Carlos Montesinos García assumed the role of Municipal Public Security Secretary (SSCM) on Friday in a formal command transfer ceremony presided over by Mayor Estefanía Mercado, who reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to prioritizing public safety.

The event, held at the SSCM Civic Plaza, was attended by State Attorney General Raciel López, Federal Prosecutor for Quintana Roo Carlos Tovilla, and representatives from state and federal law enforcement agencies. Mayor Mercado emphasized Montesinos García’s experience, dedication, and adherence to human rights principles while publicly acknowledging the contributions of outgoing commander Raúl Tassinari in fostering peace within the municipality.

Strategic Security Investments

“From the outset of this administration, we recognized that security cannot be improvised,” stated Mercado. She highlighted Playa del Carmen’s status as Quintana Roo’s safest municipality, attributing this achievement to strategic planning and a per capita security investment of 1.2 billion pesos—the highest nationwide—allocated to police training, technology, and territorial presence.

The leadership transition, Mercado clarified, reflects a governance strategy aimed at improving outcomes rather than addressing a crisis. “When things are going well, change is not a contradiction—it is a responsibility,” she asserted.

New Secretary’s Pledge

In his inaugural address, Montesinos García thanked the mayor for her trust and vowed to work with transparency, accountability, and proximity to the community. “Security is not built from an office but through listening, dialogue, and tangible solutions,” he declared.

Montesinos García outlined key priorities, including increased street-level engagement, strengthened communication channels with residents, and a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption. “Those who betray the uniform will have no place in this institution,” he warned.

His approach will emphasize interagency coordination with state and federal authorities, partnerships with schools, businesses, and civil organizations, and targeted youth outreach. “We will not allow anyone to lead our youth astray,” he affirmed, extending reassurance to those affected by insecurity: “You are not alone. We will reclaim our streets, parks, and community life.”

Ceremony Attendees

The event drew municipal cabinet members, city council representatives, and Playa del Carmen’s entire police force, including Tassinari, who resigned to pursue new initiatives in peacebuilding and security.