The National Strategic Operations Unit (UNO)
Introduction to UNO
Under the leadership of Omar García Harfuch, head of the Ministry of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC), the National Strategic Operations Unit (UNO) has been established as an elite group. This new force aims to intensively direct and supervise criminal investigations while leveraging advanced computer technology.
Objectives of the UNO
UNO is designed to tackle high-impact crimes through a systematic and data-driven approach. Its establishment reflects a recognition of the growing need for specialized law enforcement capabilities to confront the complexities of modern criminality.
Key Responsibilities
Planning Tactical Strategies: The unit is tasked with the planning and execution of tactical strategies aimed at arresting individuals who instigate violence throughout the country.
Incident Procedures: UNO will devise specific incident procedures to manage situations that pose a threat to public safety across various contexts.
Emergency Protocols: The group will develop protocols for swift reactions in emergencies, particularly concerning threats against public servants.
Training Programs: UNO will establish specialized training modules, collaborating with both national and international security entities to ensure that agents are equipped to handle complex situations.
Collaboration with Authorities: The unit aims to foster systematic cooperation with research areas within the SSPC and other governmental levels.
Intelligence and Research Support: It will provide analytical support to enhance understanding of criminal dynamics and improve responsiveness to urgent security needs.
Six Main Functions of UNO
The Official Gazette of the Federation published on December 1, 2025 outlines six primary functions that UNO will perform:
Intelligence Operations: Conduct and implement intelligence operations to identify and capture individuals generating violence.
Incident Management: Establish procedures to address incidents threatening public safety.
Emergency Protocols: Create mechanisms for support and response during emergencies targeting public servants.
Training Coordination: Develop specialized training programs aligned with special operations alongside other security bodies.
Interagency Collaboration: Foster collaborative efforts with public security institutions across all government levels as well as relevant international bodies.
Judicial Compliance: Ensure the enforcement of priority objectives and adherence to ministerial and judicial orders.
Strategies for Enhancing National Security
The national security plan presented in October 2024 laid out objectives that emphasize strengthening intelligence and research capabilities. Since García Harfuch’s appointment, the need for a specialized security force that bridges intelligence and law enforcement has become apparent. Recent deployments in states like Sinaloa and Michoacán indicate active efforts to implement this strategy.
In conclusion, as the National Strategic Operations Unit takes shape within the realm of Mexico’s security apparatus, there lies an anticipation of a more coherent and effective approach to combating the escalating violence and organized crime that challenges the nation. With its data-driven strategies, specialized training, and robust interagency collaboration, UNO is poised to make a significant impact on national security.