Extensive Security Deployment for Three Kings' Day
Mexico City's Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) has initiated a comprehensive security operation, dubbed 'Día de Reyes 2026,' deploying 14,998 police officers across the capital. This significant measure, active from Saturday, January 3, to Tuesday, January 6, 2026, aims to safeguard public safety, maintain vigilance, and ensure smooth traffic flow during the traditional Three Kings' Day festivities.
Operational Scope and Resources
The deployed force includes a wide array of resources to support the officers on the ground. These comprise 929 official vehicles, 35 motopatrullas (motorcycle patrols), 10 grúas (cranes), 15 ambulances, and 12 motoambulancias (motorcycle ambulances) from the Escuadrón de Rescate y Urgencias Médicas (ERUM). Additionally, two rescue units and a Cóndores helicopter will conduct aerial surveillance, prevention, and dissuasion efforts. The operation also involves personnel from the Subsecretaría de Control de Tránsito to manage vehicular and pedestrian mobility.
Targeted Vigilance in High-Traffic Areas
Security efforts are concentrated in areas expected to experience high foot traffic and commercial activity. Reinforced vigilance is in place at banks, commercial plazas, restaurants, department stores, hotels, parks, and tourist zones. Public transportation hubs are also a key focus, with increased police presence in the 183 stations of the Sistema de Transporte Colectivo (STC) Metro and the 45 Centros de Transferencia Modal (CETRAM). Operators at the Centro de Comando y Control (C2) and the Centro de Control, Comando, Cómputo, Comunicaciones y Contacto Ciudadano (C5) will provide continuous monitoring through the city's extensive network of surveillance cameras.
Significance of Día de Reyes in Mexico
Día de Reyes, or Three Kings' Day, celebrated annually on January 6th, marks a significant cultural and religious event in Mexico, concluding the Christmas season. This day commemorates the biblical story of the Three Wise Men (Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar) bringing gifts to the infant Jesus. It is a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, and the traditional consumption of 'Rosca de Reyes' (King's Cake). The holiday typically leads to increased commercial activity and public mobility, necessitating the heightened security measures implemented by the SSC to ensure a safe and orderly celebration for residents and visitors alike.
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
Finally, peace of mind during holiday shopping.
KittyKat
It's good that authorities are prioritizing safety during Día de Reyes, given the crowds. However, such a massive deployment might be better utilized addressing daily crime issues rather than a single event.
Katchuka
So much traffic, this will help keep things orderly.
Mariposa
The commitment to protect citizens during a major holiday is commendable, especially with the resources deployed. Yet, the sheer number of officers raises questions about the perceived level of threat or if this budget could be allocated to other community programs.
Bermudez
What a waste of taxpayer money for one holiday.