Dramatic rehearsal in the port
The Mexican Navy Secretariat, together with other institutions, set up two high-voltage drills in the port of Veracruz. It was no wonder: the first scenario was straight out of a movie—armed men taking hostages in port facilities. The second, even more tense: a merchant ship with alleged radiological cargo and armed individuals on board.
Firm hand, without hesitation
The exercises were carried out in the port area of Veracruz, with the Administration of the National Port System (ASIPONA), the Port Captaincy, the Naval Port Protection Unit and the State Public Security Secretariat. The idea, according to the Navy, is clear: strengthen the response capacity in complex incidents and consolidate coordination between those responsible for maritime and port security.
In the first drill, the Naval Unit established security perimeters, controlled strategic access and, in coordination with other bodies, carried out reconnaissance maneuvers, controlled intervention, use of select shooters, rescue of people and initial medical care. All under a script that, although fictional, reflects real risks.
The second act: radiological risk
The second exercise was a Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear risk scenario. The arrival of a merchant ship with radiological cargo and armed people on board was simulated. The Port Security Committee was activated, raising protection to Level 3 and setting up a Mobile Command Post. They deployed specialized cells and tactical intervention teams to board, release hostages, neutralize threats and locate radiological sources.
These essays are not mere theater. They are the difference between an effective response and chaos. The question that remains: are we ready for whatever comes?
