In a shocking incident, the UK ambassador to Mexico, Jon Benjamin, reportedly left his post [1] earlier this year after pointing a gun at a local member of the embassy staff. A video posted on social media, originally reported by the Financial Times, shows a man resembling Benjamin aiming a rifle at another person while peering down the weapon’s sights. The video was captioned, “In [the] context of daily killings in Mexico by drug dealers, he dares to joke.”
Benjamin has not commented on what appears to be a grossly inappropriate joke. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has not issued an official announcement regarding Benjamin’s position. However, he is no longer listed as the ambassador to Mexico on the government’s official website, which states his tenure lasted from 2021 to 2024.
In the video, a man resembling Benjamin is seen moving the weapon around the car, aiming it at various individuals while laughter is heard in the background. One man gestures uncomfortably as the gun is pointed at him. Below is the post with alleged video of the incident:
❗??⚔️?? – The United Kingdom's ambassador to Mexico, Jon Benjamin, was removed from his post after a video surfaced on social media showing him brandishing an assault rifle and pointing it at an embassy employee. pic.twitter.com/7ujW8YLylz [2]
— ??The Informant (@theinformant_x) May 31, 2024 [3]
Benjamin, who previously served in Ghana and Chile, was known for his unconventional approach compared to typical UK diplomats. He was active on social media, engaging directly with followers on topics he was passionate about, including African politics, football, and rock music. His approachable and less formal persona set him apart from other ambassadors.
During his tenure in Mexico and previous postings, Benjamin was a strong advocate for the soft power of British rock and indie music. An avid music enthusiast, he encouraged major UK bands and artists to visit Mexico and sometimes hosted them at his residence before their concerts. For decades, he was the Rolling Stones’ primary contact within the FCDO, assisting the legendary band with the complex paperwork required for live performances worldwide.