A group of foreign tourists had a bitter experience in Oaxaca when an alleged tour guide extorted them by demanding six thousand pesos in exchange for returning their luggage. The incident, captured on video and shared on social media, sparked outrage among both residents and authorities.
The video shows the alleged perpetrator, identified as a man dressed in jeans and a blue sweatshirt, arguing with a foreign woman and denying that he had retained their luggage, despite the tourists pointing him out directly. According to the testimony of those affected, the man provided services to at least three tourists and, in the face of an alleged lack of payment, decided to retain their belongings.
“It is not fair that something like this happens, and even less so in front of the police officers, who did nothing to support us,” declared one of the aggrieved tourists. The video also shows the presence of state police officers, who, according to the complaint, did not intervene in defense of the foreign visitors.
The situation escalated when the tourists asked to be taken to the office of the supposed guide to resolve the problem, but he refused at all times. Finally, and as reported on social media, the tourists ended up paying the amount demanded to recover their luggage.
After the video went viral, the head of the Oaxaca Tourism Secretariat, Saymi Pineda Velasco, issued a statement condemning the events and reaffirming the institution’s commitment to protecting the rights of visitors. “From the Tourism Secretariat we strongly condemn any practice that violates the rights of visitors and affects the image of our destinations,” Pineda said.
Likewise, the official announced that, through the Tourist Protection Center (CEPROTUR), the pertinent actions will be taken to address the case with the corresponding authorities. The complaint number 9515021200, extension 1204, was also made available to citizens to report any irregularities.
After the video went viral, the head of the Oaxaca Tourism Secretariat, Saymi Pineda Velasco, issued a statement condemning the events
This incident has generated a broad debate on social media about the need to regulate and supervise the activity of tourist guides in Oaxaca. Users have also questioned the apparent inaction of local authorities during the incident. Some comments have demanded greater rigor in the certification of guides and increased surveillance to prevent acts like this from happening again.
Oaxaca, one of the most important tourist destinations in Mexico, faces the challenge of guaranteeing the safety and integrity of its visitors to preserve its reputation as a place of cultural wealth and hospitality. This case highlights the importance of reinforcing measures to protect tourists and taking strong action against those who threaten the heritage and trust of travelers.
Source: infobae
