Tulum Businesses Fund Police to Boost Tourist Safety

Tulum, Quintana Roo — More than half of the officers currently serving in Tulum’s Executive Police force are being paid through private-sector funding, according to David Ortiz Mena, president of the Tulum Hotel Association (AHT).

This public-private partnership is part of a broader initiative to bolster security in high-traffic tourist areas. Under the model, business owners directly hire police officers under long-term agreements to ensure a consistent and effective presence in key locations.

“The number of officers hired under this program is clearly growing, as are the available assignments. They should not be seen as an isolated force but as part of a larger strategy,” Ortiz Mena stated.

Currently, Tulum’s Tourism Police consists of 22 officers, with more than half financed by private entities. The hotel association representative noted that this auxiliary police model allows businesses not only to cover salaries but also to contribute to equipment and operational improvements for officers.

Ortiz Mena emphasized that this collaboration does not absolve government authorities of their responsibilities but serves as a joint effort to address the rising demand for security in a destination experiencing heavy tourist traffic.

He added that expectations are high for the program’s expansion, both in the number of officers and coverage of critical zones, as part of a comprehensive strategy combining public and private investment to ensure safety for residents and visitors alike.