Military and law enforcement checkpoints aimed at detecting narcotics, alien smuggling and firearms traffic are located at various places throughout Mexico. Areas known to possess these checkpoints include the Mexican border states, either right before or right after you pick up your car registration.
Many checkpoints will have a red flag marker and are operated by uniformed officials; however, others will not be marked and are manned by police/military officers not in uniform. These checkpoints have “spiked devices” and are sometimes used to deflate tires of vehicles attempting to evade these checkpoints.
We have traveled Mexico extensively and although, in the areas mentioned above, we have on occasion been stopped, we have never experienced a problem or any intimidation. Mostly we felt we were stopped because we were driving a motor home and they just wanted to see it. That idea was usually short-lived when they boarded and were greeted by our two large dogs. They would have a quick look while asking us if the dogs were Bravo (meaning dangerous – will they bite).
In one area in the south where we were staying, it was incredibly hot and the military were posted outside this little village. When we went into town from the trailer park and passed them every day we would also get a big smile and a wave so we would bring them back a cold six pack of coke. They weren’t allowed to accept beer.
Other Focus team members report that they always get smiles and courtesy when stopped. Never once have anyone of them felt intimidated by the presence of military uniforms or guns.
Remember: Military personnel are young men in service to their country - and, it is their country. They are polite, friendly and courteous - treat them in a like fashion, and enjoy yourself while in Mexico.