Interpol Issues Red Notice for Former Tabasco Security Chief Suspected of Ties to Criminal Organization

Web Editor

July 16, 2025

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Background on Hernán Bermúdez and His Relevance

The Interpol has issued a red notice for Hernán Bermúdez, the former Secretary of Public Security in the Mexican state of Tabasco. Bermúdez is accused of having connections with the criminal group known as “La Barredora,” which is linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

Bermúdez served as the head of the Secretariat of Public Security in Tabasco from 2019 to 2024, a period during which the state experienced a surge in violence related to criminal organizations.

Political Context and Connections

Bermúdez was appointed to the position by then-Governor Adán Augusto López, who was closely associated with former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (2018-2024). After serving as the Secretary of Government from 2021 to 2023, López Hernández was elected as a senator for the 2024-2030 term.

Allegations and Investigation

Authorities announced that a criminal investigation has been initiated against Bermúdez, and an international red notice has been issued by Interpol. The federal Secretariat of Public Security stated that Bermúdez left the country on January 26. The investigation focuses on his alleged connections with organized crime.

According to media reports, Bermúdez was known as “Comandante H” within “La Barredora,” an organization involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and human trafficking.

In November of the previous year, current Tabasco Governor Javier May accused Bermúdez of ties to criminal organizations.

Violence in Tabasco

Tabasco, a southern state with a petroleum industry focus, has been hit hard by crime-related violence in recent months. In 2024, the state recorded 892 homicides, a significant increase from 253 in the previous year, according to official records.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Hernán Bermúdez? Hernán Bermúdez was the former Secretary of Public Security in Tabasco, serving from 2019 to 2024.
  • What are the allegations against him? Bermúdez is accused of having connections with “La Barredora,” a criminal group linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
  • Who appointed him to the position? Bermúdez was appointed by then-Governor Adán Augusto López, who was closely associated with former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
  • When did Bermúdez leave the country? According to authorities, Hernán Bermúdez left Mexico on January 26.
  • What is the current situation in Tabasco regarding violence? Tabasco has experienced a surge in crime-related violence, with 892 homicides recorded in 2024, compared to 253 in the previous year.