Michoacán voluntary firearm surrender program, Digi Mart USA News (Michoacán, Mexico): Mexican Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez Velázquez reported that 673 firearms were voluntarily and anonymously surrendered in exchange for cash in Michoacán as part of the federal program “Sí al Desarme, Sí a la Paz” (“Yes to Disarmament, Yes to Peace”). The update was presented during the Wednesday, November 4 morning press conference led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo at the National Palace.
Rodríguez presented progress on the Plan Michoacán por la Paz y la Justicia (Michoacán Plan for Peace and Justice), which focuses on addressing the causes of violence. She said voluntary disarmament is part of efforts to remove weapons from circulation and reduce risks for families in the state.
Under the strategy, residents have exchanged 673 firearms for cash without being required to provide their identity.
The official said the measure helps prevent violent incidents and is part of federal government efforts to advance pacification in the state. She also detailed that, for the first time, 53 federal agencies reached every municipality in Michoacán through 115 Ferias del Bienestar (Welfare Fairs).
These events delivered 1,120,000 procedures and services related to birth certificates, CURP identification, SAT tax matters, scholarships, social programs, health, education, and cultural and sports activities.
Rodríguez further reported that the Tianguis del Bienestar (Welfare Market) reached 268 localities, where 2,234,313 new essential items were distributed free of charge. She reiterated that the actions will continue through coordination among the three levels of government, with the aim of addressing social needs and the causes of violence in Michoacán.
