Mexico City investigates police actions during World Cup protest

The government of Mexico City has launched an investigation into the conduct of police officers during a security operation preceding a World Cup match. The probe follows allegations of excessive force against families of missing persons who were protesting in the southern part of the capital. Mayor Clara Brugada stated she did not order any repression of public expression and has requested a thorough review of the officers involved.

Pablo Vázquez Camacho, the Secretary of Citizen Security, acknowledged that the operation, designed to prevent a complete blockage of Calzada de Tlalpan, a major avenue leading to the stadium, resulted in "friction and pushing with the protesters." He denied any intent to repress the search collectives, emphasizing that the operation's goal was to keep some lanes open for traffic. Dialogue with the protesters led to the police withdrawing, and the demonstration continued for over three hours.

The investigation will be handled by the Internal Affairs and Human Rights directorates of the police force. If any irregularities are confirmed, appropriate sanctions will be sought. The city government also plans to engage in dialogue with the protesting groups and enhance police training in human rights, alongside reviewing protocols for future mobilizations.

Since the World Cup began, groups representing families of the disappeared have organized protests near tournament venues. They aim to draw attention to the crisis of over 133,000 missing persons and 72,000 unidentified human remains in Mexico. Videos shared by the groups showed altercations between protesters and police, with families accusing officers of using force to contain the demonstration and violating their right to protest.