In addition to economic pressure, fear has become a determining factor in business decision-making.
"Business owners don't report because they know there is no protection."
Coparmex issues a warning while Rocío Nahle's government remains silent
In addition to economic pressure, fear has become a determining factor in business decision-making.
"Business owners don't report because they know there is no protection."
Aja warned.
The inaction of the state prosecutor's office and the authorities has caused a sense of abandonment and impunity among the population.
Despite these alarming figures, the government of Nahle has not presented a concrete action plan to stop the wave of extortions. The governor has chosen to focus on defending herself against media questioning, while thousands of Veracruz residents live under threat.
Veracruz, one of the states with the greatest economic and tourism potential in the country, is being consumed by insecurity and the ineptitude of its authorities.
Extortion in Veracruz is no longer an isolated crime and has become a constant threat to the local economy. According to data from the Employers' Confederation of the Mexican Republic (Coparmex), 66% of business owners in Veracruz have been extorted. This figure places Veracruz as one of the most dangerous states to start and maintain a business.
The government of Rocío Nahle is more focused on protecting its image than on addressing the violence suffered by Veracruz residents.
The situation has become unsustainable. The recent murder of retired teacher Irma Hernández, who refused to pay an extortion fee, is a heartbreaking example of what Veracruz residents are facing. The crime was perpetrated by an armed commando that kidnapped, tortured, and displayed her in front of a video camera.
This atrocious act sparked a wave of outrage, but it did not provoke any forceful response from the state government. Instead of taking responsibility, the authorities have chosen to downplay the problem or hide behind justifications.
At a press conference, Alberto Aja, president of Coparmex Veracruz, warned that extortion is no longer exclusive to organized crime. Today, common criminals also operate freely and without consequences.