This is not a drill

metro safety, calling writers & jacarandas

Author

Rocio L
April 30, 2025

Happy Hump Day! 

This month’s main story dives into a disturbing trend making headlines – and making people nervous – across Mexico City: pinchazos, or needle attacks, on the Metro and Metrobús. Over 20 reports have surfaced in just a few weeks, mostly targeting women. We’ll break down what’s happening, how the city is responding, and what to do if you or someone near you experiences a suspected attack.

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Shall we dive in?

TOP NEWS

Pinchazos on the Metro: What’s Going On?

Over 20 reports of needle attacks—yes, actual needles—have surfaced across the CDMX Metro and Metrobús system in the last month. Most victims have been women, and the incidents have sparked concern over both safety and response.

Tell me more.

Since mid-March, riders have reported feeling a sharp prick (hence the name pinchazo) followed by dizziness, nausea, or disorientation. Authorities say 20 official complaints have been filed so far, though only 2 tested positive for sedatives. One man reported a stick followed by an attempted robbery, marking the first case tied to a possible crime.

The attacks have been reported across several Metro lines:

  • Line 1 – Merced, Pino Suarez

  • Line 2 – Bellas Artes, Allende

  • Line 3 – Viveros, Hidalgo, Indios Verdes

  • Line 7 – Polanco

  • Line 8 – Atlalilco

  • Line B

This week, one suspect was arrested and charged with injecting a female passenger.

In response, Mayor Clara Brugada announced new safety measures, including more security cameras throughout the system, toxicology tests for victims, and weekly updates on the investigation. She also encouraged anyone affected to file a formal complaint and alert Metro police right away.

What does this mean?

Feminist collective No es una, somos todas is offering legal and psychological support and has teamed up with the Reacción Violeta gender violence team in Cuauhtémoc for rapid help.

If you or someone near you experiences a suspected needle stick:

  • Pull the emergency lever

  • Report it to a Metro officer

  • Use the Metro’s 24-hour WhatsApp lines: 55-4321-4031 or 55-5009-1930

  • Request medical attention 

  • File a police report 

Stay alert & safe out there.

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CULTURE & HAPPENINGS
DID YOU KNOW?

Jacarandas aren’t native to Mexico—they actually come from South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina. But in the early 20th century, Japanese landscape architect Tatsugoro Matsumoto introduced them to Mexico City. President Pascual Ortiz Rubio wanted cherry blossoms to line the capital’s streets, but Matsumoto recommended jacarandas instead, as they were better suited to the climate. Now, their vibrant purple blooms have become an iconic sign of spring in CDMX.

ROCIO RECOMMENDS

It took me a while, but I finally got Fitpass — and I’m never looking back! It’s similar to ClassPass in the US: a monthly subscription that gives you access to gyms and studios across the city. I’ve never been a big gym person, but I’m finally into it after discovering group strength training classes. (Peach bum, here I come!) If you’re thinking about joining, you can get a $100 peso discount with my code: REF117214.

VIRAL VAULT

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See you soon!