UNAM Targeted by Wave of Threats, disruptions, and Demands
mexico City – The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) is facing a sustained period of unrest marked by bomb threats, vandalism, and coordinated student actions demanding unspecified documents, prompting concerns about deliberate attempts to destabilize the institution.
Beginning in early October, groups identifying themselves with actions previously taken at the Museum of Contemporary Art in University city, caused damage at the Tlatelolco Cultural Center on October 2. That same day, warnings circulated regarding potential shootings and explosives at the Faculty of Political Sciences and the CCH Vallejo campus, allegedly linked to an aggressor from CCH Sur.
The threats escalated on October 3, extending to FES Iztacala and the Faculty of Engineering.Between October 6 and 8, bomb threats prompted evacuations at the faculties of Political Science, Governance, Psychology, Chemistry, FES Acatlán, and High School 3. A chilling message warning of a “sea of blood” was discovered in the restrooms of FES Zaragoza on October 7. Evacuations were then forced at High Schools 7 and 8, and the Faculty of Chemistry due to threats made on social media between October 8 and 10.
Alongside the threats, student groups have blockaded facilities, demanding “request documents” containing a mix of legitimate concerns and unspecified demands. Several schools and faculties have gone on strike or transitioned to online classes, though manny departments remain operational.
A professor at UNAM, writing anonymously, questioned the motives behind the escalating unrest, asking, “Who benefits from the instability and anxiety of our main university?” and expressing concern about potential threats to the university’s autonomy.
The incidents are prompting a university-wide inquiry and raising questions about external influences seeking to undermine Mexico’s largest and most prestigious educational institution.