Three months into Operation Zia Shield, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s office cited successful collaboration between the military and law enforcement.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.—In the shade of a tall fence along Central Avenue, a group of homeless people lingered in Albuquerque’s troubled International District as three squad cars and a medical vehicle swept onto the scene.
Police and first responders moved in quickly, scattering the group as a homeless woman began shouting epithets from the middle of the street.
Matthew, a resident of a nearby halfway house, stood at the edge of the turmoil and watched as the situation unfolded.
“They’re just making people leave, man,” he said, frowning.
“They give you a chance to leave. If you don’t leave, they give you another chance. If you don’t leave again, they just run your name.”
He said if the information shows there is an outstanding warrant, handcuffs come out.
Matthew, who did not want to share his last name, said police have been more visible in a neighborhood that has struggled with crime, homelessness, and drug use for a long time.
The display of force by law enforcement is anything but accidental.
On April 8, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham activated the New Mexico National Guard to assist Albuquerque police in addressing increased crime and safety concerns, particularly on busy Central Avenue.
This allowed officers to return to regular patrols and other duties.
The emergency request from the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) cited the fentanyl epidemic and rising violent juvenile crime as issues requiring immediate intervention.
“The safety of New Mexicans is my top priority,” Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, said in a statement.
“By deploying our National Guard to support APD with essential duties, we’re ensuring that trained police officers can focus on what they do best—keeping our communities safe.”
In May, 60 to 70 National Guard members were sent to the city for Operation Zia Shield. Their training was overseen by New Mexico’s Homeland Security, Public Safety, and local police agencies.
National Guard members have been assisting with tasks such as providing aid along Central Avenue, processing and transporting prisoners, maintaining security at Metro Court, and monitoring the city with police cameras and drones.
“The National Guard will serve as a visible, trusted presence supporting law enforcement duties, which will enhance officer presence in high-crime areas and reinforce community trust through visible engagement,” Lujan Grisham said.
By Allan Stein
