Mexico City enforces alcohol ban and deploys thousands for soccer match security

Mexico City authorities have implemented strict measures, including access filters and a "dry law," to curb the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in areas surrounding Paseo de la Reforma.

The "dry law" prohibited alcohol sales in convenience stores in the Historic Center and five neighborhoods within the Cuauhtémoc borough starting at 3:00 PM on the day of the Mexico-Czech Republic soccer match. Access filters were also established on streets adjacent to Paseo de la Reforma to enforce these restrictions.

To ensure compliance and maintain order, the Secretariat of Government deployed personnel, with the SSC planning to station 4,200 police officers in the vicinity. In total, 7,500 public servants, including 649 from the Secretariat of Government, were tasked with monitoring public spaces for illegal alcohol sales and managing street vendors.

Authorities also installed 600 trash containers and 180 portable toilets to accommodate attendees. Additionally, Metrobús personnel placed signs on bus shelters to prevent people from climbing on them, a behavior observed during previous matches.

Earlier, the Secretariat of Government reported ongoing supervision at the FIFA Fan Festival in the Zócalo, focusing on access points and surrounding areas to prevent public alcohol consumption. Operatives had already confiscated beer cans intended for sale to event attendees.

The capital's government stated these actions would be continuous throughout the event, aiming to minimize risks and ensure a safe and orderly environment for all attendees. The goal is to maintain a "celebration of sport in an atmosphere of order, security, and healthy coexistence."