Riviera Maya, Q.R. — Metal detectors and personal inspectors have been added to several of Mexico’s archaeological site entrances. Mexico made the move to strengthen security in its busier sites after a recent shooting that killed a Canadian tourist.
The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) said Monday that they have strengthened its security with the installation of metal detectors. According to the INAH (Instituto Nacional de Antropología y Historia), the detectors have been installed in Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Monte Alban and Palenque.
The INAH says with the support of the National Guard and public and private security personnel, manual and vehicle inspection filters have also been optimized.
“In order to improve visitor experiences at the five of Mexico’s most visited archaeological sites, the INAH has strengthened its security devices and operations in Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Palenque and Monte Alban, with the installation, of metal detector arches,” they said.
In these heritage sites, located in the State of Mexico, Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Chiapas and Oaxaca, respectively, there is support from the National Guard as well as government and private security personnel.
“Six arches were placed in the Ciudad de los Dioses, five (one at each entrance), and another at the entrance to the Beatriz de la Fuente Museum of Teotihuacan Murals. Similar structures were placed, in pairs, at the other sites mentioned,” they added.
Since April 24, heads of the respective INAH Centres have been leading the newly implemented measures, including the manual inspection of backpacks and bags, complemented with mobile metal detectors, and the supervision of interiors and trunks in vehicles.
The INAH says discussions have been held with the National Guard to increase their presence as part of this strengthening strategy. “The INAH reiterates its commitment to the protection of cultural heritage and all people who frequent the archaeological zones under its care,” they said.
On April 20, a lone gunman climbed the Teotihuacán pyramid in the State of Mexico and began shooting at a group of tourists. One woman, a Canadian, was killed. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the following day that 13 others had been injured.
The gunman, who has not been named, took his own life on the pyramid before being arrested.
