Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The state prosecutor’s office announced plans to reintroduce random backpack inspections in schools across Quintana Roo, citing a surge in violence, substance abuse, and other risky behaviors among minors.
The program, known as Operativo Mochila, aims to prevent drugs, weapons, and dangerous objects from entering secondary and high school campuses. It also seeks to strengthen early detection of problems affecting students.
Miguel Ángel Sánchez Tovar, an advisor to the State Prosecutor’s Office on addiction and crime prevention, said officials have begun consulting with parents and education authorities to implement the measure starting next school year. He noted that most parents support the initiative due to growing concerns over violence, drug use, and possession of dangerous items on school grounds.
The prosecutor’s office revealed it is currently monitoring more than 130 cases of minors with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, primarily in middle and high schools. Additionally, over 80 criminal investigations involving crimes against children and adolescents are underway, some of which have led to arrests and court proceedings.
Among the most serious recent cases, authorities dismantled a human trafficking network and a drug-dealing ring that allegedly operated in school environments. The prosecutor’s office warned that criminal groups are using social media and digital platforms to approach minors, urging stronger communication between parents, teachers, and school officials.
