Banks located in Sinaloa could close their doors if the situation of insecurity and violence related to drug trafficking continues to worsen, according to statements by the president of the Association of Banks of Mexico (ABM), Julio Carranza Bolivar. This wave of violence has generated concern among bankers due to the risks faced by both staff and clients of financial entities in the region.
During a conference as part of the bimonthly meeting of the ABM Associates Committee, Carranza Bolivar expressed: "Of course we are concerned, we have many collaborators working there. We have a lot of clients." Despite these concerns, the ABM leader trusts in the government's control measures in Sinaloa to combat violence and ensure long-term security.
In light of this situation, the banking sector has sought support from the National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) with the aim of establishing accounting and fiscal criteria that can provide assistance to clients affected by the situation. Jorge Arturo Arce Gama, vice president of the ABM, assured that the decision to close branches in Sinaloa has not yet been made, but bank executives are constantly assessing the situation in collaboration with branch staff and managers.
In this regard, Arce Gama emphasized that if staff feel unsafe to work, the possibility of closing or adjusting the hours of branches in the region will be considered. So far, no one has requested the suspension of activities in Sinaloa banks, but, according to the executive, the safety and well-being of employees are a priority and necessary measures will be taken if required.