Two SSC police commanders fired for tampering evidence in the double murder investigation of Clara Brugada’s aides, prompting an internal probe and security shake-up.
The Mexico City Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) abruptly removed two high-ranking officers after uncovering that they altered crucial evidence at the scene of a double homicide involving close collaborators of Head of Government Clara Brugada. The head of the Nativitas Sector and the precinct’s patrol coordinator stand accused of moving a helmet and tactical vest discarded by the gunman, a breach that may compromise ballistic and genetic analyses. The SSC has launched an internal investigation and turned all materials over to the city Attorney General’s Office (FGJ-CDMX).
Officials say the misconduct came to light when the General Directorate of Internal Affairs reviewed photographs and surveillance footage from the May 20 attack on Ximena Guzmán and José Muñoz along Calzada de Tlalpan in the Benito Juárez borough. Though patrol units from Sector Nativitas secured the area minutes after gunfire erupted at 7:00 a.m., investigators later found that key items had been shifted. Witnesses reported the officers repositioned the helmet and vest before evidence technicians arrived.
SSC Secretary Pablo Vázquez ordered immediate administrative removal of the two commanders and requested support from the National Guard to secure roadblocks around fragile crime scenes. “We cannot allow even the slightest doubt over our procedures,” Vázquez said in an internal memo. He also directed the rotation of commanders in seven neighboring sectors to restore confidence and prevent any perception of a cover-up. All objects, photographs, and video footage now sit in a sealed case file with the FGJ-CDMX.
Clara Brugada, who learned of the removals while touring security posts in eastern boroughs, strengthened her personal detail and called federal Interior Ministry officials to discuss additional protective measures for high-profile public servants. “There will be no impunity,” Brugada said in a statement. “Those responsible for planning these killings and those who tamper with justice will face the full weight of the law.” Her office emphasized that safeguarding evidence is essential to securing convictions.
Investigators have pieced together a timeline of the homicide ring’s escape. Authorities believe four individuals participated: a shooter, an escape motorcyclist, and two logistical operatives who swapped vehicles at least three times to flee the capital. SSC and FGJ-CDMX teams recovered two cars and the stolen motorcycle used in the getaway between May 21 and 23. But tampering with the helmet and vest risks delaying forensic tests that could tie the suspects to the weapons.
Legal experts warn that evidence-alteration charges can carry criminal penalties, potentially overshadowing administrative sanctions. “Moving evidence is no minor infraction,” says an attorney familiar with police conduct cases. “It undermines the chain of custody and opens defense attorneys the chance to argue contamination.” If the FGJ-CDMX finds enough proof, the officers could face trial, permanent disqualification from public service, and criminal charges for obstruction of justice.
The SSC’s handling of the scandal will serve as a litmus test for institutional transparency. In recent years, the force has faced public scrutiny over allegations of misconduct and weak oversight. By swiftly removing the commanders and involving federal agencies, the SSC aims to send a clear message that no officer stands above the rules. Observers note that quick, decisive action may help restore public trust, but lasting change will require thorough reforms in training and internal controls.
For now, the focus remains on finalizing the internal inquiry and completing forensic analyses. The FGJ-CDMX has yet to announce whether it will press charges. Meanwhile, security forces maintain heightened vigilance along major thoroughfares and at government buildings. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will watch how Mexico City’s police leadership rebuilds credibility and ensures the integrity of future criminal probes.
