For thousands of residents of Arizona, crossing into Sonora is a routine journey—whether for visiting family, shopping, medical appointments, or traveling toward destinations like Hermosillo, San Carlos, and Puerto Peñasco.
However, those planning to drive through the highways of Sonora are being urged to remain vigilant. Recent reports have surfaced regarding “unofficial” checkpoints where individuals posing as authorities may be extorting drivers.
The Office of the Attorney General of the Republic (FGR) has acknowledged receiving these citizen complaints. While the institution has launched several joint operations with security cabinets and state authorities to identify the individuals involved, the FGR has stated that it has not yet confirmed whether the perpetrators are official members of the organization.
Official Checkpoints in Sonora
To distinguish legitimate law enforcement from potential criminal activity, the State Security Table in Sonora has identified four active and supervised checkpoints currently operating on the highways:
- Caborca-Sonoyta
- Nogales-Ímuris
- Estación Don
- Querobabi
Official inspection points are required to be operated by properly uniformed and identified personnel and must feature clear signage and a designated channel for reporting complaints.
Safety Guidelines for Travelers
Authorities advise drivers not to assume that any group of people establishing a roadside checkpoint automatically represents federal authority. If stopped, drivers are encouraged to remain calm, avoid physical confrontation, and pay close attention to the agency they claim to represent and the circumstances of the stop.
If a driver is asked for money or suspects they are being targeted for corruption, the FGR provides specific channels to file a report:
- VISITEL: 800 890 97 80
- Email: [email protected]
- FISCanet: fiscanet.fgr.org.mx
If a checkpoint appears irregular, experts recommend:
- Do not physically confront anyone.
- Prioritize your own and your companions’ safety.
- Memorize the location and identifying details of the point.
- Report the incident to the authorities as soon as you reach a safe location.
17 Safety Tips for the Arizona-to-Sonora Route
For those traveling from Arizona, the following precautions are recommended to ensure a safe journey:
Financial and Personal Security
- Limit Cash: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use alternative payment methods whenever possible.
- Hide Valuables: Do not display jewelry, expensive watches, or high-end equipment. Keep passports and important documents out of sight inside the vehicle.
- Be Discreet: Do not share information regarding your wealth, travel itinerary, or property ownership.
- Brief Responses: During a stop, provide only the necessary information related to the immediate situation.
Behavioral Safety
- Stay Calm: A calm demeanor can prevent a situation from escalating. Avoid arguing or making threats.
- Prioritize Safety Over Recording: While documentation can be useful, do not record if it provokes an aggressive reaction.
- Travel by Day: Driving during daylight hours makes it easier to identify official services and checkpoints.
- Share Your Itinerary: Inform a trusted contact of your route and destination before leaving.
Logistics and Preparation
- Charge Your Phone: Ensure your phone has a full battery and consider carrying a power bank. Save emergency numbers in your contacts before crossing.
- Know the Route: Research the highways, nearby towns, and official checkpoints before starting your trip.
- Maintain Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is in good working order, with valid tags and registration.
- Avoid Isolated Stops: If you need to rest or check the vehicle, use well-lit areas like gas stations or commercial establishments.
- Consider a Dash Cam: A dashboard camera can provide a helpful record of your journey.