Concerns Rise in Baja California Sur Over the Potential Arrival of Security Firm Zascita
Published by Ricardo “Pony” Jiménez
The possible entry of Zascita de México into the private security market in Baja California Sur has raised concern among business, tourism, and hospitality sectors in the state. Although the company promotes itself as a “high-level security” firm, media reports have highlighted background issues that have set off alarms regarding its corporate structure and operational model.
According to a report published by El Independiente in February 2023, the company was reportedly established in 2017 with nominal partners and complex corporate structures that, according to that publication, may have been designed to conceal the identity of the true beneficiaries. The same report mentions that some publications have linked the company to former federal official Miguel Ángel Osorio Chong, although these claims have not been publicly clarified by the company nor verified by judicial authorities.
The report also states that Zascita obtained federal licenses to operate as an armed private security company unusually quickly—something that typically requires strict vetting and extensive reviews. These elements have fueled debate over the standards and criteria under which the company is now seeking to expand into new regions.
Business sector calls for transparency
The potential arrival of Zascita in Baja California Sur comes at a time when private security plays a strategic role in tourism, real estate, commercial development, and investment projects. Business groups argue that before allowing new armed security providers to operate in the state, it is essential to guarantee transparency, accountability, and corporate traceability.
Other media have also mentioned the potential involvement of businessman José Carlos Mapelli Mozzi, associated with corporate investment backing the firm. His role and financing capacity have enabled the company to grow rapidly and compete for large-scale contracts—something that has raised concern among private sector representatives over the implications of such accelerated expansion.
Potential risks for tourism and the business sector
In Baja California Sur, private security is not just an additional service—it is a fundamental component of protecting hotels, marinas, private airports, corporate tourism developments, residential communities, and high-value investment infrastructure.
Experts argue that without transparency regarding who controls operations, who manages armed personnel, or how sensitive client information is handled, strategic assets such as tourist infrastructure, financial operations, and client data could be at risk.
Possible consequences
- Exposure of private and corporate assets
- Risks of extortion or criminal infiltration
- Leakage of sensitive information
- Damage to investment and tourism reputation
A call for corporate clarity
The business community in Baja California Sur has spent years building a security ecosystem based on certifications, trust, and providers with verifiable track records. For that reason, many argue that before allowing Zascita to operate in the state, the following should be guaranteed:
- Full disclosure of corporate structure
- Identification of final beneficiaries and controllers
- Review of the process by which armed licenses were obtained
- Evaluation of operational standards and certifications
Without these safeguards, the company’s presence could represent operational and financial risks to the state and its tourism economy.
Conclusion
Private security in Baja California Sur must be backed by companies with ethical processes, transparent corporate structures, and clear operational standards. The potential arrival of Zascita opens a debate that business leaders and authorities must address carefully before authorizing operations in the region.
Author: Ricardo Jiménez
Sports News Director
