Acapulco’s Contrasting Realities: Tourism Boom Amid Crime
During this year’s Semana Santa, Acapulco presented a stark contrast between its bustling tourism and escalating violence. The famous Mexican Pacific resort saw at least 12 homicides linked to organized crime since Monday, as reported by Arturo Bailleres, the Secretary of Security in Acapulco.
Tourism Thrives Despite Violence
Despite the grim news, Acapulco’s hospitality industry is experiencing a surge in occupancy. With 15,000 rooms available, 92.5% are filled during this school vacation period, according to the local Tourism Secretary. Beachgoers crowd the shores while anticipation builds for the Cumbre del Mariachi event, which will feature renowned artist Pepe Aguilar on Saturday.
Rural and Suburban Areas Affected by Violence
However, some rural and suburban areas have been hit hard by a wave of violence. Arturo Bailleres, the Secretary of Security in Acapulco, confirmed at least 12 deliberate homicides related to crime and organized crime since Monday.
Local Authorities’ Response
Mayor Abelina López declined to address the security situation when questioned by reporters on Wednesday, urging visitors to enjoy Acapulco instead. On Monday, authorities discovered at least six lifeless bodies across the resort, one of which was dismembered.
- Tuesday saw two taxi drivers murdered, followed by a taxi driver protest blocking one of the roads connecting Acapulco to Mexico City on Wednesday.
- Despite the federal government deploying 4,000 national guards to Acapulco for enhanced security during the peak season, violence persists. The city, once a Hollywood celebrity haven, has suffered alongside other regions in the Guerrero state due to Mexico’s violence spiral since 2006, resulting in over 450,000 deaths from a controversial military operation against drug trafficking.
- Ironically, Mexico remains one of the world’s top ten tourist destinations. In 2024, it welcomed 45 million international visitors, a 7.4% increase from the previous year, as per the Tourism Secretary.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation in Acapulco during Semana Santa? Despite thriving tourism with 92.5% hotel occupancy, Acapulco faces a surge in violence with at least 12 homicides linked to organized crime since Monday.
- How has the local government responded to the violence? The federal government deployed 4,000 national guards to Acapulco for enhanced security during the peak season. However, violence persists, with Mayor Abelina López declining to address the security situation.
- What is Acapulco’s historical significance and current challenges? Once a popular destination for Hollywood stars, Acapulco now grapples with violence stemming from Mexico’s drug war since 2006, which has claimed over 450,000 lives. Despite this, Mexico remains a leading tourist destination, attracting 45 million international visitors in 2024.
