Ewout Genemans Faces Obstruction Investigating Mexican PrisonS Most Secure Unit
Dutch investigative journalist Ewout Genemans was granted extensive access to the Texcoco prison in Mexico, a facility holding numerous members of drug cartels, as part of his documentary series Ewout: Risky Prisons. The prison system operates within a country grappling with widespread poverty, low wages, and significant corruption – factors contributing to the high levels of drug-related crime. As one officer stated, “Corruption is what defines Mexican prisons.”
Genemans observed a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere upon entering the detention center, noting prisoners where dancing, a scene he likened to “the College for the Performing Arts.” The prison is divided into modules, with Module 4 designated as the most heavily guarded, housing the “most at-risk prisoners” according to the director.
The color of prisoner uniforms indicates their legal status: blue for those awaiting trial and brown for the convicted. Genemans quickly learned the strict rules governing prisoner behavior, witnessing how inmates immediately face the wall upon a guard’s approach.
Throughout his visit, Genemans encountered a palpable tension and heard veiled complaints about prisoner treatment. Several detainees offered only guarded responses,with one stating,”There are a lot of things I can’t talk about,” and another expressing resignation to the pervasive corruption: ”Mexico is so corrupt,there’s not much you can do about it.”
However,Genemans’ inquiry hit a wall when he attempted to access the isolation cells within Module 4. While the director initially stated no prisoners were currently in isolation, explaining the module’s heightened security was for detainees who ”pose a great danger” to the general population, he refused Genemans’ request to view the area, even though the cells appeared empty. The director cited safety concerns, prohibiting both filming and access.
Genemans openly questioned this denial, expressing his disbelief and suspecting potential human rights violations. “I don’t believe you,” he stated, challenging the director’s justification for keeping the area off-limits.
Ewout: Dangerous Prisons airs Wednesdays at 8:30 PM on RTL 4 and is available on Videoland.
