A brutal attack on a bar in Queretaro, Mexico, left 10 people dead and seven injured, highlighting the ongoing violence plaguing the country. Gunmen in a pickup truck opened fire on Los Cantaritos bar, demonstrating a chilling escalation in violence even in a city typically considered safer than many other parts of Mexico. The attack comes amidst a surge in violence nationwide, linked to drug cartels and gang warfare, with over 450,000 homicides since 2006. This incident underscores the immense challenge facing the new president in addressing the pervasive issue of organized crime and violence.
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A horrific attack on Los Cantaritos bar in Queretaro, Mexico, has left at least 10 people dead. Four assailants armed with long weapons opened fire on patrons, killing seven men and three women. Seven others were injured. One suspect was apprehended, and the getaway vehicle was found burnt and abandoned nearby. This tragedy comes amidst a wave of violence plaguing Mexico, including a recent cartel shootout that claimed 16 lives. The US has urged Mexico to intensify efforts to combat violence and address the illicit flow of drugs and firearms.
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A rear admiral in the Mexican navy was shot and killed in Manzanillo, a key port city on the Pacific coast. This marks one of the highest-ranking military officers slain in Mexico in a decade, with the last such incident occurring in 2013 when a vice admiral was killed in Michoacan. While attacks on high-ranking officers are relatively rare, the Mexican government has increasingly entrusted the navy, army, and National Guard with law enforcement duties, placing them at the forefront of the fight against drug cartels. Manzanillo’s strategic location for drug smuggling, with direct shipments from Asia, makes it a highly valuable target for cartels seeking to import precursor chemicals for fentanyl production.
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I woke up to surprising news that Mexican drug lord “El Mayo” was in U.S. custody, a revelation that seemed to catch even Mexican authorities off guard. The implications of this arrest are profound and carry the potential to set off a chain reaction of chaos and violence. As someone living in Mexico, I cannot ignore the imminent fallout that this news will likely bring.
The apprehension of “El Mayo” is undoubtedly a monumental event, perhaps even more significant than the capture of El Chapo. For decades, this elusive figure has operated with impunity, exerting an unprecedented level of power and influence over Mexico’s drug trade.… Continue reading
The recent decision to halt avocado and mango inspections in a Mexican state after two USDA employees were attacked and detained raises serious concerns about the state of the avocado industry. Mexico supplies around 80% of the avocados consumed in the United States and a third of the global supply, making it a crucial player in the market. However, the dark side of this lucrative industry is becoming increasingly clear, with reports of cartel involvement, violence, corruption, and even anti-avocado militias emerging.
The avocado business in Mexico has been likened to the diamond trade, with accusations of greed, ambition, and cartel battles overshadowing the seemingly innocent fruit.… Continue reading
The recent news out of Mexico about the assassination of a mayor after the first woman was elected as leader is a stark reminder of the deep-rooted issues that plague the country. It is disheartening to hear that Ms. Sánchez was threatened by men linked to organised crime who demanded she hand over the town’s security to state police officers on the cartel’s payroll. Her refusal to comply with their demands and her request for military reinforcement showcase her bravery and commitment to serving her town despite the dangers that loom large.
The situation in Mexico is reminiscent of the days of Escobar in Colombia, where corruption and violence ran rampant, and public officials were constantly under threat.… Continue reading
As Mexico prepares to potentially elect its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, I can’t help but feel a mix of hope and trepidation. On one hand, the prospect of breaking gender barriers in politics is a milestone for Mexico, a country known for its strides in gender equality in elected office. Sheinbaum, a former mayor of Mexico City and climate scientist, represents a shift towards more diverse and inclusive leadership.
However, as exciting as this moment is, there are underlying concerns that cannot be ignored. Mexico’s rampant issues with violence and the pervasive influence of cartels cast a shadow over the political landscape.… Continue reading
I can’t even begin to fathom the immense pain and heartache that the families of the two Australian surfers must be going through after hearing the devastating news that their loved ones were found dead in a well, shot in the head. To have not one, but two sons taken away in such a senseless and barbaric act is truly unimaginable. My heart goes out to them in this time of unbearable grief and sorrow.
The fact that the attackers resorted to such extreme violence over a vehicle, specifically for its tires, is beyond comprehension. What kind of world do we live in where human life holds so little value that it can be snuffed out over material possessions?… Continue reading
As I sat down to write this article, my heart weighed heavy with the news of bodies found in Mexico where Australian and US tourists were reported missing. The mention of Callum Robinson struck a chord with me, as a fellow lacrosse enthusiast who admired his skills on the field. The thought of such a vibrant young man meeting a tragic end in a foreign land is truly heartbreaking.
Baja California, despite its natural beauty, has a reputation for being one of Mexico’s most violent states. The warning from the U.S. State Department about reconsidering travel to the area due to crime and kidnapping is a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk in seemingly idyllic vacation spots.… Continue reading
It’s absolutely mind-boggling to hear the Mexican president claim that criminal groups are ‘respectful’ and ‘respect the citizenry’. The sheer audacity and disconnect from reality is startling. How can anyone in a position of leadership make such statements, especially when the brutal actions of these criminal organizations are well-documented?
The notion that these cartels, who thrive on fear, violence, and corruption, have any modicum of respect is not just naive but dangerous. They operate with impunity, slaughtering people, trafficking drugs, and terrorizing communities. The very idea that they somehow ‘respect’ anyone is a slap in the face to all those who have suffered at their hands.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker