The United States embassy in Mexico issued a travel alert for Quintana Roo (southern Mexico), where the popular resorts of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum are located, due to riots that have occurred between Uber drivers and taxi drivers.
The disputes “they have occasionally turned violent, resulting in injuries to US citizens in some cases”, the diplomatic headquarters said in a statement.
“In light of the widely publicized security incidents in tourist destinations, remember that all destinations have some level of risk. Violent crimes such as homicides, kidnappings, and robberies are common in Mexico.”, warns the embassy.
This Monday, some taxi drivers blocked the hotel zone of Cancun, so tourists and residents of the area had to walk to reach their destinations. Even local police patrols made some transfers.
On January 11, Uber obtained a legal protection to operate in the state of Quintana Roo. The decision allows it to operate without the need to process that concession as it is considered a service between private parties.
Taxi driver unions allege that Uber is unfair competition.
As a result, taxi driver groups have staged violent incidents against Uber drivers that have included beatings and threats.
The mayor of Cancun, Ana Patricia Peralta, said in a video posted on her social networks that she will not allow “that the image of destiny and human security is violated by a few”.
“Let’s put confrontations aside, let’s take care of our people, the people of Cancun, our visitors who trust us“, said.
AFP Source
Source: Gestion
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