Background on the Issue
In Puebla, Mexico, only 20% of the 302 affiliated hotels and motels are connected to security camera systems with the city’s Emergency Response and Immediate Action (DERI) department, despite the necessity to protect guests from insecurity.
Who is Gustavo Ponce de León Tobón?
Gustavo Ponce de León Tobón is the executive director of the Asociación Poblana de Hoteles y Moteles, an organization representing hotels and motels in Puebla. His acknowledgment of the low adoption rate highlights the concern over insufficient security measures in the hospitality sector.
Current Situation and Recommendations
Ponce de León mentioned that the association has emphasized to business owners, particularly those in the historic center, the importance of reinforcing security measures by monitoring their surroundings to deter robberies and alert authorities when suspicious activities are observed.
He pointed out that pedestrian robberies are the most concerning crime, urging members to collaborate with municipal authorities to aid in the apprehension of offenders. However, the response has been slow, despite the affordability of security equipment, which costs around 15,000 pesos including cameras, panic buttons, and internet connectivity software provided by the municipal security department.
Impact on Tourism
“We need to be more vigilant to curb or reduce these incidents, as failing to do so results in high costs due to decreased guest attendance,” Ponce de León stated.
He recalled a tragic case in 2018 when a young man from Veracruz was murdered outside the Camino Real hotel while resisting a robbery. The perpetrator was apprehended thanks to security camera footage that clearly identified his involvement.
Key Questions and Answers
- What percentage of Puebla’s affiliated hotels have security camera systems connected to DERI? Only 20%.
- What is the approximate cost of setting up a security camera system for hotels in Puebla? Around 15,000 pesos, which includes cameras, panic buttons, and internet connectivity software provided by the municipal security department.
- What type of crime is most concerning for Puebla’s hotel industry? Robberies targeting pedestrians.
- Why is it crucial for hotels to adopt security camera systems? To aid authorities in identifying criminals and deterring crime, ultimately protecting both guests and the hospitality industry’s reputation.
