On Saturday, local officials reported that a confrontation occurred between armed members of a criminal group and inhabitants of a rural farming town in central Mexico, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals and injuries to seven others.
A video circulating on social media captured a violent altercation on Friday between villagers, armed with sickles and hunting rifles, and suspected gang members. The footage showed the villagers chasing down the suspects while exchanging gunfire.
The governor of the state of Mexico, Delfina Gómez, along with other leaders in the area, denounced the violence. They stated that it was a result of ongoing regional conflicts that have been building up for quite some time. She reassured the local community that preserving peace and order is one of her main concerns.
During a press conference on Saturday, she stated, “These incidents do not hinder us; rather, they strengthen our resolve to enhance security measures in our cherished state. Rest assured, we will persist in our efforts to prevent any future occurrences.” She also reassured, “You are not alone; we stand with you.”
Authorities in the State of Mexico, which borders Mexico City, reported that the confrontation took place in the village of Texcaltitlán, approximately 80 miles (130km) south-west of the capital.
Authorities stated that out of the deceased, 10 were affiliated with a criminal organization and four were local inhabitants. The specific gang was not disclosed by law enforcement, however it was acknowledged that the notorious drug cartel, Familia Michoacana, has held a stronghold in the region for a prolonged period of time.
The footage seemed to indicate that the assailants were dressed in military attire, some wearing helmets. It seems that the locals set fire to both their bodies and their vehicles.
According to reports from local media, members of the Familia Michoacana gang arrived in the village and demanded that farmers pay a fee for each acre of land.
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Mexican drug organizations have a reputation for demanding payment from both legitimate and illegal enterprises, and they may resort to violence or arson against ranches, farms, or businesses that refuse to comply.
The notorious Familia Michoacana has gained notoriety for their bold attacks on law enforcement, as well as the horrific 2022 massacre of 20 civilians in Totolapan, located in the neighboring state of Guerrero. This ruthless ambush claimed the lives of the town’s mayor, his father, and 18 other men.
Source: theguardian.com
