‘No One Messes Around With the Veracruz Mafia’

Irma Hernández Cruz, 62, was intercepted by an armed criminal cell in Álamo Temapache.

In a new blow to security in Veracruz, Irma Hernandez Cruz, a retired teacher and cab driver in Alamo Temapache, was abducted last Friday, July 18, in the heart of the municipality, generating alarm among the population and an intense operation by the three levels of government to locate her.

The 62-year-old former teacher was driving a taxi to supplement her income after retiring from public education. She was intercepted by an armed group on the central Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz Street, in front of the Municipal Market and the taxi stand on the Ejido Estero del Ídolo route, at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Witnesses describe how the assailants acted violently and without any fear of the presence of passers-by, forcing the woman into a pick-up truck and taking her off in an unknown direction.

The area where the kidnapping occurred is a street usually frequented by shopkeepers, families and public transport workers. Neighbors and witnesses witnessed the scene, where armed men with long weapons and balaclavas acted with absolute impunity. However, most of them took cover out of fear, paralyzed by the violence.

Threat and message to cab drivers’ union

Hours after her kidnapping, a video circulated on social networks that has generated commotion and concern. In the recording, Irma Hernández, with short hair, is visible in the center of the video, sitting or kneeling on the ground and wearing a white shawl.

Behind her, a group of ten hooded people carry long weapons and tactical vests. The surroundings appear to be a wooded area.

In the video, which has already gone viral on social networks, the woman can be heard saying: “My name is Irma Hernandez Cruz, I drive cab # 554. Pay your dues as it should be with them, and stop being in bed with the opposition, who only extort you. Otherwise, you will end up like me”, at which point the recording is abruptly cut off.

Intensive search and location card

The Veracruz State Search Commission immediately activated the protocols to find the retired teacher.

The file issued by said agency describes Irma Hernandez as a 62 year old Mexican woman, born on December 27, 1962, with an approximate height of 1.50 meters, light brown skin and dark brown eyes.

Her hair is short, with a combination of curly and straight, and she has a visible blemish under her left eye. In addition, she requires specialized medical treatment, raising concerns about her physical well-being.

Bryan LeBarón, activist and human rights defender, has been one of those who have spoken out about the case to demand justice. Through his social networks he shared the video where she is seen subdued and affirmed: “She is not a hitman, she is a retired teacher who decided to be a cab driver to earn extra money. No one deserves to die for working and much less to end up on their knees, with armed men aiming at their body and being forced to give a message that sows so much fear that everyone has to obey the crime,” it reads.

He stressed that this terrorism is not between criminal groups, it is against people regardless of age, gender, place or profession.

Sources: Hugo Gallardo, Infobae