Tuxpan, Veracruz – A coordinated security operation involving state and federal forces has restored order at the cereso (Social Reintegration Center) in Tuxpan, veracruz, following a weekend disturbance sparked by inmate complaints of extortion and abuse.Eleven people were injured and transported to local hospitals during the unrest.
The incident began on Saturday, with inmates reportedly protesting the activities of a criminal group operating within the prison, referred to as the “shadow group.” Prisoners documented the situation in videos circulating on social media, alleging systematic extortion of inmates and their families, and also control over contraband, including drugs. Alonso Delgado, identified in one video, claimed to have previously managed prison operations on behalf of this group, overseeing the collection of “quotas” and facilitating illicit activities with alleged support from prison authorities.
On Sunday morning, around 09:00 local time, elements of the Veracruz state Public Security Secretariat (SSP), the Mexican navy, the National Defence Secretariat (SEDENA), and the National Guard launched a joint operation to regain control of the facility. authorities confirmed that fires ignited by burning objects within the prison have been extinguished.
Three individuals identified as instigators of the mutiny have been transferred to the Pánuco prison for further investigation. The Veracruz state government has not yet issued an official response to the specific allegations made by inmates regarding corruption and the “shadow group’s” influence.
In a statement, the State Government reaffirmed its commitment to good governance, respect for human rights, and strengthening security within its correctional facilities, emphasizing strict adherence to the law and interagency coordination. The Cereso Tuxpan houses approximately 1,200 inmates, according to data from the state’s prison system as of December 2023. This incident highlights ongoing challenges with prison security and the presence of organized crime within Mexican correctional institutions. the Pánuco prison, where the alleged instigators were transferred, has a capacity of approximately 800 inmates and is considered a higher-security facility.
The Cereso Tuxpan is located approximately 250 kilometers north of the state capital, Xalapa.The facility was built in 1998 and has undergone several expansions to accommodate the growing prison population. The current warden,appointed in January 2022,is Ricardo Morales.
