The National Civil Police (PNC) announced that this June 10, the Strategic Road Safety and Prevention Plan began on the occasion of the Soccer World Cup 2026. According to the PNC, this sporting event will mobilize Guatemalans to restaurants, shopping centers, bars and other establishments where the games will be broadcast.
Jorge Aguilar, spokesperson for the PNC, said that the plan will be executed in a coordinated manner between the PNC Traffic Department, Provial and the municipal traffic police of different municipalities in the country, with the aim of preventing road incidents, acts of violence and alcohol consumption by minors.
Aguilar said that checkpoints and breathalyzer operations will be installed at strategic points and areas of high influx of people.
In addition, he warned that any driver caught driving under the influence of liquor or drugs will be charged in accordance with the law.
He reported that the institution will reinforce actions to protect children and adolescents during celebrations related to the international tournament.
Aguilar explained that the measures do not represent new prohibitions, but rather a strengthening of the controls that are already carried out permanently.
“We take into account that many businesses are going to take the opportunity to hold different festivities internally. And according to this, Guatemalans are going to be participating in this type of festivities in different restaurants, bars or in some type of organization where some type of giant screen is placed,” he indicated.
Sales of alcohol to minors detected
Aguilar said that they have detected establishments that sell alcoholic beverages to minors.
“It has been possible to detect businesses that have been selling intoxicating beverages to minors and in recent cases we have noticed minors driving under the influence of liquor and unfortunately they have been involved in road incidents or in some type of fights or attacks,” he said.
PNC calls for responsibility
Aguilar recommended designating a driver or using taxis and app-based vehicles to get around after consuming alcoholic beverages.
“People who drive under the influence of liquor will be brought to the disposal of the corresponding courts. That is why the call is for you to have a designated driver or to better use a taxi or a vehicle by application to be able to travel to those sectors where you are going to enjoy,” commented the spokesperson.
He also asked people who carry firearms to refrain from taking them to establishments where alcoholic beverages are sold.
Aguilar added that the tightening of operations is directed against drunk drivers and seeks to save lives.