It emerged that the British ambassador to Mexico was fired from his job earlier this year after pointing an assault rifle at a local embassy employee, with footage of the incident spreading online.
In the five-second clip, Jon Benjamin can be seen pointing the gun while sitting in the front of a car while music and laughter play.
He was reportedly on an official trip to Durango and Sinaloa, two northern Mexican states ravaged by drug cartel violence.
A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesperson said in a statement to MailOnline: “We are aware of this incident and have taken appropriate action.” When internal issues arise, the FCDO has robust human resources processes in place to address them.’
The video of Mr Benjamin, a career ambassador, playing with the high-powered weapon was posted on a social media account believed to have been created by disgruntled local employees of the British embassy in Mexico City, unhappy about the treatment received.
A post accompanying the video says: “In a context of daily murders in Mexico, he dares to joke.”
In the five-second clip, Jon Benjamin (pictured) can be seen pointing the gun while sitting in the front of a car while music and laughter play.
Benjamín was appointed to Mexico in 2021. He previously represented the British government in Chile, Ghana, Turkey, Indonesia and the United States.
He was reportedly on an official trip to Durango and Sinaloa, two northern Mexican states plagued by drug cartel violence.
Another post adds: ‘The British Embassy in Mexico has a history of hiding things from the public. Including how Jon Benjamin’s take-above-it attitude has resulted in the systematic harassment of Mexican staff.’
Mr. Benjamin has been contacted for comment.
Mexico is currently experiencing a wave of violence, largely caused by drug cartels fighting for control of the lucrative trade.
Benjamín was appointed to Mexico in 2021. He previously represented the British government in Chile, Ghana, Turkey, Indonesia and the United States, during his 35-year career in the diplomatic service.
He is no longer listed as ambassador to Mexico on the UK government website, and his former deputy is now in charge.
This is not the first time Benjamin has found himself in the middle of controversy during his distinguished diplomatic career.
While UK ambassador to Chile in 2012, he was forced to issue a humiliating apology after posting a derogatory football tweet about Argentinians and the Falklands War.
And he added: ‘What were the islands they took, from whom and for what reason? Maybe you’ll meet me at the National Stadium this Tuesday? I already have my ticket.
His post caused national outrage in Argentina and national media accused him of being rude and insulting the nation.
Benjamin later deleted the tweet and apologized, saying, “I’m sorry I caused offense with a private message I posted by mistake.” I feel great affection for my Argentine friends and respect for their team.’