VILLASERENA, TABASCO - A stunning escalation of violence erupted today following a riot at the CRESET prison, inflicting terror across Villahermosa and Nacajuca. Early Thursday morning, December 19, inmates at the Centro de Reinserción Social del Estado de Tabasco (CRESET) revolted, igniting chaos not only within the facility but also spilling out onto the streets.
This riot was reportedly set off during the attempted transfer of two inmates identified as key figures of violence, Gerardo “N” and Javier “N.” During the operation orchestrated by the Secretaria de Seguridad y Protección Ciudadana (SSPC), authorities faced hostile attacks, including gunfire and acts of vandalism as they entered the facility.
According to reports from Tabasco HOY, Secretary Víctor Hugo Chávez described the brutal reception when law enforcement approached the prison, stating, "Al entrar, las autoridades fueron recibidas con agresiones de armas de fuego y actos vandálicos" (Upon entering, the authorities were received with firearm aggression and acts of vandalism). The scene soon evolved from confrontation to catastrophe.
Preliminary reports state at least two inmates died during the uprising, sparking deep concern among the families of those inside. One distraught mother, overwhelmed with relief upon learning her son was safe, exclaimed, "Gracias a Dios mi hijo está bien” (Thank God my son is okay), showing the heightened emotional stakes for families awaiting information about their loved ones.
By mid-morning, as the situation inside the CRESET was gradually controlled, violence began to spread to the surrounding communities. Streets across Villahermosa witnessed the burning of vehicles and shops, with reports confirming more than ten vehicles ablaze, including compact cars and heavy trucks. Nacajuca was also hit particularly hard, as protesters blocked various roads and set multiple stores on fire.
Some areas where incidents occurred included Villa Macultepec, Bosque de Saloya, and the major gas station on the outskirts of the city. Residents reported the burning of convenience stores and the display of banners with ominous messages directed at local authorities, with one saying, "Nos están matando" (They are killing us).
While this rampage unfolded, authorities worked intensively to restore order. Police and military units ramped up their presence across the region, undertaking extensive patrols to prevent more violence from spiraling out of control. Local law enforcement reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of Tabasco residents.
The chaotic scenes prompted state officials and emergency response teams to act quickly. Governor Javier May Rodríguez was firm during his press conference, articulately noting, "Todo está bajo control en el CRESET... se trabaja diario para mantener la tranquilidad en el estado" (Everything is under control at CRESET... we work daily to maintain tranquility in the state). He assured the public of the government's commitment to handling such crises decisively and effectively.
Officials reported findings during the operations following the disturbances, which included the confiscation of various weapons such as one AR-15 rifle, five 9mm pistols, and significant quantities of drugs. Notably, Chávez mentioned, "Hubo demasiado disparos por parte de estas personas" (There were too many shots fired by these individuals), reflecting the volatile and perilous situation they faced.
The rapid eruption of violence since the riot has not only led to increased physical destruction but has sparked fear and anxiety among the city’s inhabitants. Witnesses flooded social media with real-time updates, showcasing the alarming frequency and magnitude of the incidents occurring across the state.
With calls for calm and restoration of order echoing throughout the streets, Villahermosa now grapples with the aftermath of this gut-wrenching episode. Despite the security operations implemented, reassurance remains fragile as residents traverse uncertain times.
The security measures deployed by both state and federal authorities are expected to continue in order to address the underlying issues contributing to these outbursts of violence and to provide solace to communities suffering from unrest.
Authorities are expected to provide more updates about the situation during the governor's regular press conference on Monday, wherein he will elucidate the developments related to the day’s dramatic events.
With growing concerns over public safety, the residents of Tabasco are left waiting for definitive answers and tangible actions to guarantee their security and peace.
