IMSS: Man beaten by guards at Colima hospital speaks out after assault

MEXICO CITY (apro) - Salvador Chávez, a 55-year-old beneficiary, spoke publicly after being beaten by security guards at the General Hospital of Zone No. 1 of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), in Villa de Álvarez, Colima.

In an interview with Excélsior, Chávez said he suffered injuries to his ribs, abdomen, and face, and his glasses were destroyed during the attack. "I came home without any medication and was beaten," he said.

He demanded medication and was attacked by guards.

The incident occurred when Chávez went to refill a prescription for diabetic neuropathy . According to the IMSS office in Colima, the drug had been previously delivered on June 2, so it was not possible to refill it that same month.

According to videos posted on social media and witnesses, Chávez attempted to record the refusal at the pharmacy, which led to the intervention of four private security officers . The guards wrestled with him, knocked him to the ground, and hit him with a thermos and their fists. During the attack, the patient suffered a seizure and was taken to the emergency room.

"They broke my glasses, I have bruises all over my body. I feel helpless and angry," Chávez said. He also reported that his vital signs were not taken nor was he given a medical examination after the attack.

IMSS terminates contract with security company

The Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) announced that it will terminate the contract with the company Hidalgo Vigueras Consultores , which is responsible for security at the hospital. In addition, the Federal Protection Agency will temporarily assume surveillance duties at the hospital.

In a statement, the institute expressed its "absolute rejection of any act of aggression or conduct that violates dignity or human rights within its facilities."

Authorities are investigating the case.

The Colima State Human Rights Commission filed complaint CDHEC/2V/124/2025 for excessive use of force and lack of protocol in the actions of the guards. The Colima State Attorney General's Office opened an investigation for abuse of authority.

The IMSS also maintains contact with Chávez and assured him that it will provide institutional support throughout the process.

Victim demands reparation for damages

Chávez has already filed a formal complaint with the Public Prosecutor's Office and demanded that the case not go unpunished. "This isn't about someone getting away with murder," he emphasized in his testimony.

So far, there has been no official information about his medical recovery.