Security isn’t just talk in Baja California anymore—it’s action. And not the Hollywood kind.
A criminal gang that was shaking down business owners in Ensenada has been taken down. The charge? Cobro de piso—that ugly racket where criminals demand money in exchange for “protection.” Refuse to pay? They light your place on fire or spray your home with bullets. That’s exactly what happened to one local restaurateur.
But here’s the plot twist: he reported it. That one act of courage set off a chain of events that ended with four men in cuffs. Boom.
From Flames to Arrests
According to the State Attorney General, these suspects were tied not only to extortion in Ensenada but also to a homicide in Mexicali. After committing the murder, they tried to lie low back in Mexicali—unaware that investigators were already connecting the dots.
They weren’t just petty criminals, either. Authorities say they were part of an organized crime group dealing in drugs and human smuggling. One tip, one complaint, and the whole thing unraveled.
As the AG put it, “We needed a formal complaint to make this happen.” In other words: silence helps the criminals. Speaking up helps everyone else.
More Boots, More Brakes
This isn’t an isolated case. As we’ve reported this month on ggnorth.com, the Baja California government has ramped up security with more patrols, more agents, and more checkpoints—especially around high-traffic corridors like Tecate–Tijuana.
Some folks complain about the delays, but let’s be real. A few extra minutes in traffic is worth it if it means your car doesn’t end up stripped in a canyon. Besides, these stops are working.
A National Guard officer (who asked to stay anonymous) told us that just last week at the Tecate–Tijuana checkpoint, they recovered four stolen cars and seized illegal substances. So yeah, those checkpoints aren’t just slowing you down—they’re stopping crime.
Not Just Luck—A Plan
All of this is part of Baja’s broader plan to make safety a priority. And it’s showing. From Ensenada to Mexicali, authorities are coordinating efforts and connecting cases across cities. This is real policing, not PR.
Even better? It’s giving business owners and tourists a reason to breathe easier.
Still a Long Road
The authorities believe this isn’t the only group operating. More victims may be out there, afraid to speak up. But this case proves that one voice is enough to tip the scales.
So if someone’s trying to charge you for “protection,” don’t stay quiet. Report it. You’re not alone—and the law might just be a few steps behind them.
Here’s the Deal
- Extortion ring: Busted.
- Cars & drugs: Recovered.
- Officers: Working overtime.
- The state: Making security a priority.
- Citizens: Starting to believe it.
This time, Baja isn’t reacting—it’s taking charge.
🟣 No Bad News. Just the news that matters.
