Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In anticipation of the high influx of tourists during the December holidays, Puerto Vallarta’s Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguía González has reactivated the city’s Tourist Police. The force has been bolstered with a fleet of 20 all-terrain vehicles and electric bicycles to enhance surveillance and security along the city’s bustling tourist strip.
At a formal ceremony held on the boardwalk near the iconic lighthouse, Mayor Munguía González officially launched the operation on Monday. He emphasized the importance of redoubling efforts to protect both locals and visitors during the city’s peak season.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in our city,” the mayor stated. “By enhancing our security measures, we aim to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all who live in and visit Puerto Vallarta.”
The Tourist Police will comprise 120 bilingual officers equipped with motor vehicles and electric bicycles. These officers will patrol key tourist areas, providing assistance and ensuring a visible security presence. Their bilingual capabilities are expected to enhance communication with international visitors, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
Responding to citizens’ concerns about safety in residential neighborhoods, the rest of the operational body of the Public Security Directorate will double its presence in popular neighborhoods. Residents had previously voiced complaints about a lack of security, prompting the city to take decisive action.
In addition to the Tourist Police, personnel from Civil Protection and Firefighters, as well as Inspection and Regulations departments, received new motor vehicles to reinforce their activities across the city. This move aims to enhance emergency response times and improve overall public safety services.
Mayor Munguía González also announced the installation of 120 alert buttons in the tourist area and the Linear Park. These devices will be directly connected to the municipal police station, allowing for immediate response to calls from citizens. When activated, the alert buttons will notify authorities of the exact location, enabling swift action.
“The alert buttons are an essential tool for enhancing security,” the mayor explained. “They empower citizens and visitors to report incidents promptly, ensuring that help is just a button press away.”
City officials believe these combined efforts will significantly improve safety during the holiday season and beyond. The enhanced security measures are part of a broader initiative to bolster public confidence and maintain Puerto Vallarta’s reputation as a safe tourist destination.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the locations of the alert buttons and to approach Tourist Police officers if assistance is needed. The city plans to conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public on utilizing these new resources effectively.
Local businesses and tourism operators have welcomed the increased security measures. “This is a positive step for everyone,” said Maria Torres, owner of a beachfront restaurant. “Our guests can enjoy their time here knowing that the city is taking their safety seriously.”
Tourists have also expressed appreciation for the added security. “It’s reassuring to see the police presence,” said John Miller, a visitor from the United States. “It makes our vacation more relaxing.”
The city administration remains dedicated to improving public safety infrastructure. Officials are exploring additional technologies and strategies to further enhance security and emergency response capabilities.
Mayor Munguía González concluded the event by thanking the various departments involved in the initiative. “This is a collaborative effort,” he said. “Together, we are making Puerto Vallarta safer for everyone.”
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - In anticipation of the high influx of tourists during the December holidays, Puerto Vallarta's Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguía González has reactivated the city's Tourist Police. The force has been bolstered with a fleet of 20 all-terrain vehicles and electric bicycles to enhance surveillance and security along the city's bustling tourist strip.
