The La Paz municipal government has filed criminal complaints after vandals sabotaged two public water wells, a sports center, and the city landfill, causing more than 350,000 pesos (roughly $17,500 USD) in combined damages.
Acting mayor Amor Fenech Montaño announced the complaints were filed with the Public Ministry. City officials submitted photos, surveillance footage, and documentation to back the cases.
Water Wells Hit With 200,000 Pesos in Damage
The two targeted wells, known as La Ardilla 1 and La Ardilla 2, are operated by Oomsapas, La Paz’s municipal water and sewer utility. Damage to the wells totaled approximately 200,000 pesos (about $10,000 USD).
Water infrastructure is a critical concern in La Paz, where the aquifer is already under severe stress. A federal report found the city was extracting 39% more water than the aquifer could recharge annually as of 2022. Studies have also shown that nearly half of the extracted municipal water never reaches consumers due to the aging distribution network. Sabotage to active wells compounds an already precarious supply situation for residents.
Stolen Cabling and Damaged Fountains at Sports Center
At the El Piojillo Municipal Sports Center, vandals stole electrical cabling and damaged drinking fountains. That damage was estimated at 150,000 pesos (about $7,500 USD). The sports center serves local neighborhoods in La Paz as a public recreation facility.
Separately, arson was reported at the city’s municipal landfill, though the government did not specify the extent of fire damage at that site. The landfill incident is included in the criminal complaints filed by the municipality.
City Seeks Accountability Through Courts
Fenech Montaño, who is serving as acting mayor, said the administration would pursue accountability through the legal system. The complaints were filed with the Baja California Sur Public Ministry, the state’s prosecutorial body responsible for investigating crimes.
The coordinated nature of the attacks on three separate pieces of public infrastructure prompted the city to classify the incidents as sabotage rather than routine vandalism. Municipal authorities have not publicly identified suspects or a possible motive.
This story was first reported by BCS Noticias.