Tulum, a county known for its escalating violence, is currently in the midst of election campaigns. Despite this, crime continues to surge, indicating that criminals still hold significant control over the area. The security measures put in place by the municipal government under Diego Castañón Trejo have proven ineffective, and his re-election campaign only promises more of the same.

The recent murder of Andrés Dzul, brother of the missing mayor Marciano Dzul Caamal, along with two others in Tulum, underscores the severity of the situation. The ruling political class appears unable to protect even their own family and friends, posing a serious threat to the entire community.

A report titled "The Management of Public Security in Mexico, Armed Forces and National Guard," published in October 2023 by researcher Carlos Barrachina Lisón, provides some context. The report outlines the ongoing security crisis in Mexico, with a particular focus on the alarming homicide rates in Quintana Roo, one of the country's most violent states.

According to data from the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security System, Tulum had a homicide rate of 255.34 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021. In the same year, Quintana Roo had a rate of 67.85, which marginally decreased to 65.48 in 2022. Tulum's rate for 2022 was 208.13 per 100,000 inhabitants. The World Health Organization classifies 10 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants as an epidemic, indicating the extreme level of violence in Tulum. With a population of only 42,000, Tulum's homicide rate is shockingly high, likely making it the most violent city in Mexico, surpassing Fresnillo.

Despite these alarming figures, local authorities seem unwilling or unable to take effective action. This was highlighted by a recent shootout in downtown Tulum, where an armed group attempted to kill two men. Although the attempt was unsuccessful, the incident further increased fear among residents and tourists. The shooting occurred near Rotary Park, on Neptuno Street, between Orion and Beta. Police reports indicate multiple gunshots were fired, with spent shells and bullet impacts on nearby houses found at the scene.

While Tulum's residents live in constant fear due to ongoing violence, the political class continues to make empty promises of social support, without addressing the root cause of the problem.