Yanina Noguera, the Argentine commissioner who fights drug trafficking and transforms her neighborhood

Yanina Noguera has made a milestone in the history of the Argentine Police by becoming the first woman to lead the Division Unidad Táctica de Pacificación de Barrios II. In one of the most troubled neighborhoods of Buenos Aires: Zavaleta. Since her appointment in August 2024, Noguera has shown unwavering determination in her fight against drug trafficking.

A trajectory that breaks barriers

Noguera's story begins more than two decades ago when she decided to join the Argentine Federal Police at the age of 17. While finishing her high school studies, she enrolled in the Cadet School. A step that would mark the beginning of a career dedicated to public safety.

At 20 years old, with her graduation as a police officer, Noguera faced a reality where women in the police force had support roles. But she didn't allow that to be a limitation.

Throughout her career, Yanina witnessed how women were gaining ground in a historically male-dominated world. Her skill and commitment led her to assume increasingly relevant positions, being in charge of security in neighborhoods like Rodrigo Bueno. Where she began to stand out for her ability to lead operational units.

The arrival at Zavaleta: a challenge of great proportions

The Zavaleta neighborhood, one of the most dangerous and complex in the city, is characterized as a hub for drug trafficking and multiple criminal activities. 

Violence and drug trafficking are daily challenges for its inhabitants and for the security forces. The arrival of Yanina Noguera to the Division of Pacificación de Barrios II was not an easy task. But her previous experience and her determined focus on prevention and police intelligence allowed her to face the risks and difficulties of the area successfully.

Since her arrival in Zavaleta, Noguera has implemented strategies focused on dismantling drug trafficking gangs, achieving significant seizures of drugs, weapons, and high-value items for organized crime. Recently, her unit seized more than 155 kilograms (341 pounds) of marijuana, a decisive blow to drug trafficking in the region, which demonstrated the impact of her management.

A leadership committed to the community

Beyond operational tasks, Noguera has demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with the community. She knows that security is not only about confrontations and operations but also about building trust between the Police and the residents.

In her words, "people need to feel that the Police are there to protect them, not just to intervene when there's a crime." Therefore, her team has worked tirelessly to conduct prevention operations, reaching out to citizens and listening to their demands.

This approach has allowed her to gain the respect and support of many Zavaleta residents, who previously distrusted the authorities.  Anonymous reports have increased, allowing Noguera to dismantle more criminal networks operating in the area. In a recent interview, the commissioner noted that one of the pillars of her work is "closeness with the neighbors."

The importance of empathy in security

One aspect that Noguera constantly highlights is the importance of empathy in her work. "We must not only be tough and firm, but we must also understand the situation of people on the ground," she states.

Aware of the difficult reality of the inhabitants of neighborhoods like Zavaleta, she ensures that her team is not only competent in operations. Also capable of understanding the social issues affecting people.

"In Zavaleta, not everything is black or white. Many of those in vulnerable situations are drawn into crime due to a lack of opportunities," she explains.

Noguera has also spoken on several occasions about the importance of not stigmatizing the population of troubled neighborhoods. "Sometimes, those living in Zavaleta don't have access to the same resources or support as others. That doesn't mean they're all criminals," she emphasizes.

Her comprehensive approach has made the community see her as a leader committed to improving living conditions in the area, without falling into widespread criminalization.

An exemplary leadership for women in the Police

Noguera's rise has been a clear example of how women can lead effectively within a police force. She has broken barriers and demonstrated that gender doesn't define the ability to lead and make important decisions.

Her story inspires many women who aspire to join the police force or who are already part of it, but who still face prejudices due to their gender. In this sense, Noguera becomes a role model, not only for women within the Police but also for future generations.

The balance between professional and personal life

Despite the demands of her job, Noguera is also a mother of three children. Which has allowed her to find a balance between her professional and personal life.

In several interviews, she has emphasized the importance of having time for her family. Which allows her to recharge her energy to continue with her mission in Zavaleta. "It's not easy, but family is the driving force that pushes me to keep fighting," she notes.

This balance is vital to maintaining emotional stability, especially when leading one of the most challenging divisions of the Police. Despite the sacrifices, Noguera feels fulfilled in her role, both as a mother and a professional. She doesn't hesitate to highlight the strength of her team and the motivation of her children.

The future of security in Zavaleta: an endless commitment

With each passing day, Yanina Noguera continues to demonstrate that the fight for a safer community in Zavaleta is far from over. The constant police presence, the identification of critical points, and collaboration with the neighbors are just some of the key elements of her work. With a firm determination to eradicate drug trafficking and improve the quality of life in the area.

Noguera has made it clear that her mission doesn't end with a successful operation but extends in the long term.

In her own testimony, the commissioner states: "Change doesn't happen overnight, but every action, every intervention, brings us closer to a safer Zavaleta." With exceptional leadership and a constant fight against organized crime, Yanina Noguera has earned the respect of the citizens and the admiration of her colleagues. Undoubtedly, her work in Zavaleta will be remembered as an example of what it means to fight for a better future.