The Five-O in Mexico

The police have a bad reputation in Mexico. I've heard stories from residents about bribery during traffic stops and collusion with organized crime. In fact, I haven't met a single person with a positive thing to say about the Mexican police, whether it's the federal, state or local forces.

I do not question the seriousness of the problem. In my own experiences in Mexico City, however, I've found the police to be helpful. As a newcomer to the city, I am regularly walking around in search of my destination, whether that's a subway station, a museum or the national cinema. Police officers are a ubiquitous presence in nearly all neighborhoods and so I've found that they are also great guides.

The first few times I approached a police officer I was hesitant, not sure how they would react to my request for directions. But each instance, after asking, 'para el Metro, donde esta,' I've found them pleasant and willing to lend their knowledge to an adrift visitor.