In a unanimous decision, the Baja California State Congress has issued a formal appeal calling for strengthened security measures at shopping malls across the state. The move comes in response to a recent surge in criminal incidents that has raised public concern over visitor safety, particularly in mall parking lots.
The appeal, introduced by Labor Party Deputy Yohana Gilvaja, urges Laureano Carrillo Rodríguez, head of the State Secretariat of Protection and Citizen Security, to work alongside municipal police forces. The goal is to ensure that malls implement authorized private security services, backed by operational plans and enhanced surveillance patrols.
The measure also encourages mayors to pass local ordinances requiring malls, depending on their size, to carry comprehensive insurance. This insurance would cover full vehicle theft and at least 75% of material damages sustained by patrons on the property.
During the legislative session, Gilvaja also announced a new initiative to reform the Baja California State Public Security System Law. The proposed reform aims to establish unambiguous legal obligations for mall operators to protect shoppers and their belongings.
Key provisions in the initiative include:
- Mandatory authorized private security in commercial areas and parking lots
- Operational surveillance plans filed with municipal authorities
- Insurance coverage for vehicle and auto part theft, with clear visibility of terms on tickets and payment booths
- Installation of observation towers or drones for every 5,000 square meters of parking space
- Daily reporting of stolen vehicles
- Increased oversight patrols during high-traffic periods such as holidays, paydays, and special events
The appeal gained support with deputies Montserrat Murillo, Eligio Valencia, Angélica Peñaloza, Fidel Mogollón, Juan Manuel Molina, and Jaime Cantón all voicing their endorsement. Lawmakers emphasized the urgency of ensuring safer conditions for consumers across the state’s commercial centers.
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