UK Ambassador Resigns After Pointing Gun at Embassy Staff in Mexico

The UK ambassador to Mexico, Jon Benjamin, left his post after an incident where he pointed a gun at embassy staff. A video showing Benjamin aiming a rifle went viral, raising concerns amid Mexico's drug violence. The UK Foreign Office has not made an official announcement, but Benjamin is no longer listed as ambassador.

The UK ambassador to Mexico, Jon Benjamin, left his post earlier this year after an incident where he pointed a gun at a local member of the embassy staff.

A video surfaced online, originally reported by the Financial Times, showing Benjamin aiming a rifle at another man while laughing could be heard in the background.

The caption of the video highlighted the irony of the act amidst daily killings in Mexico due to drug violence.

No official statement has been made by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), though Benjamin is no longer listed as the ambassador to Mexico on the government's official website, which notes his tenure from 2021 to 2024.

Benjamin, known for his unconventional and outspoken demeanor, was active on social media and had a background of postings in Ghana and Chile.

The controversial incident occurred during a trip to the cartel-dominated states of Sinaloa and Durango and further fueled concerns given the high murder rates in Mexico and its strict gun laws.

The FCDO acknowledged the incident and has implemented appropriate HR measures.