Sheinbaum highlights 42% reduction in intentional homicides
President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized a 42% drop in intentional homicides during her term while denying that her government seeks to 'hide' missing persons.
Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico City, announced a significant 42% reduction in intentional homicides during her tenure, equating to 36 fewer homicides per day. Speaking at a morning conference at the National Palace, she highlighted January 2026 as the month with the lowest number of homicides recorded. She attributes this achievement to the professional, honest, and dedicated efforts of various security agencies, including the Security and Citizen Protection Secretariat, the Armed Forces, and the National Guard. Sheinbaum expressed her appreciation for the entire security cabinet, emphasizing the importance of coordinated work and an effective security strategy.
However, the President faced questions regarding the rising number of missing persons in Mexico. According to a report by Mexico Evalúa, the number of missing individuals has increased by 213% between 2015 and 2025. While acknowledging the concerning statistics surrounding disappearances, Sheinbaum argued that acknowledgment of these numbers and effective measurement is essential, underscoring the complexity of addressing safety and security challenges in the country. The administration's focus on homicide reduction juxtaposed with the escalating issue of disappearances raises important questions about the complete picture of public safety during her government.
The implications of her statements reflect a dual narrative in Mexico's ongoing struggles with crime and security. While the reduction in homicides suggests progress, the alarming rise in missing persons indicates that significant challenges persist in ensuring overall safety. Such contrasting statistics invite scrutiny of the government's strategies and effectiveness in addressing the multifaceted concerns surrounding public safety and security in Mexico, in a context where public trust in governmental institutions significantly impacts societal stability and individual safety.