The Travel Buddies On The Road In Mexico Facebook page is an online space for those who want to have company as they drive through this amazing country. Especially for first timers who appreciate a knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to share the travel. Aireus-j J Westphal, one of the group members, came up with the following piece on legal and illegal checkpoints in the northern Mexican state of Sonora, check it out:
Take it from a friend. How about Sonora and the illegal stops, and who to contact and what to watch out for? This is true for all checkpoints
Just different numbers. Reporting is #1 after you are safe.
Nogales to San Carlos unauthorized checkpoints are gone.
Today, a meeting was held in San Carlos, Sonora, to discuss the problems that travelers were having along Highway 15, such as being extensively searched and having money stolen. The meeting was held by the attorney general for Sonora, the chief investigator for the attorney general, the attorney general delegate, the head of the state police, the federal secretary of public security, and the head of the US consulate’s American citizen unit in Hermosillo. Attending also were Marina San Carlos and Marinaterra managers.
To summarize, the unauthorized checkpoints have been disbanded, and those involved are being arrested. Those operating the checkpoints had no authority to do so. There are two authorized checkpoints run by Guarda Nacional, one in Benjamin Hill and one north of Hermosillo. Each of these checkpoints will have a representative from one of the above-mentioned offices monitoring the activities of the Guarda Nacional. All persons at the checkpoints will have identification, badges, official uniforms, and all vehicles at the checkpoints will have Guarda Nacional on the side of the vehicle. They may wear sun protectors, but must remove them if asked. Of particular note is that legal officials will be wearing boots (the unauthorized inspectors wear tennis shoes). Personnel at the authorized checkpoints cannot ask to search your wallet or purse, but they can search your vehicle. Highway 15 will be monitored by air and patrolled by the state police to quickly spot any unauthorized checkpoints.
The US consulate advises that if you come across an inspection that seems unusual or invasive, do not confront and comply with what is asked of you, and as soon as you leave the inspection, contact the US consulate – +52 662 690 3262 if in Mexico or 844-528-6611 if calling from the US. The email address is hermoacs@state.gov. The US consulate will respond within one day and will help with filing complaints with the newly formed Sonora government task force on tourism. All reports are recorded anonymously to protect the safety of the reporter. You can also contact Marina San Carlos with any issues.
Of particular note is the speed with which the Mexican government responded to the problems.
Source: Travel Buddies On The Road In Mexico
