The Unidad Policial de Operaciones Especiales (UPOE) in Oaxaca celebrated its 23rd anniversary in style with the release of a music video. The video features the corrido singer Pablo del Ángel, also known as “El Oaxaco,” and showcases elements such as state police patrol cars, an ambulance, and other vehicles as part of its scenery. Additionally, a large group of UPOE members is seen using tactical gear and simulating high-security operations. Accompanied by the characteristic sounds of corridos, the song’s lyrics begin: “For the love of their land, the State of Oaxaca, they risk their lives with valor and honor.” The video has gone viral on social media, leading to a wave of controversy.
The video, lasting just over three minutes, starts with a prominent sign that reads: “All visual elements used in this video are authorized by the UPOE to honor the work of our police officers.” The footage depicts UPOE officers engaged in high-risk tasks, handling weapons and driving police vehicles. Meanwhile, the epic lyrics pay tribute to the security guardians in the state.
In an interview with local media, Iván García Álvarez, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, responded to questions about the video, stating, “At no point was it authorized by the Secretariat [of Security]. An internal control order will be issued.” On Thursday, Governor Salomón Jara announced the dismissals that would take place during the ongoing investigation: “I have instructed the removal from office of UPOE Director Rodolfo Montero Arista, Director of State Support Forces Gilberto Hernández Villarreal, and State Police Commissioner Eduardo Gutiérrez Ruiz,” he stated on social media.
On his Facebook page, singer Pablo del Ángel, El Oaxaco, offers personalized corridos. The controversy surrounding his involvement in this video for the UPOE extends beyond the similarity of his lyrics and style to narcocorridos, which glorify drug traffickers. He has also been identified as the author of several compositions dedicated to major drug kingpins. Moreover, the video was filmed on UPOE premises, featuring the participation of its own members and requiring authorizations for its production.
Source: El Pais
