Mexico ramps up military and intelligence operations after mayor’s assassination
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum (Photo: Getty Images)
The Mexican government has launched a security plan for the state of Michoacán following a murder that prompted the president to call for stronger action against drug cartels, Bloomberg reports.
The outlet notes that the killing of 40-year-old Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo on November 2 was another violent crime that compelled Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and her administration to take measures to strengthen public safety.
Introducing the plan, the president described the murder as a cowardly act. Under the approved measures, the government will allocate over 57 billion Mexican pesos (approximately $3.1 billion) to enhance security in the state.
President Sheinbaum also promised to review progress in Michoacán every 15 days and allocate all necessary resources to eradicate violence.
As part of the plan, over 10,000 military personnel will be deployed to strengthen the state’s security forces. The measures also include closing borders around key hubs to prevent the movement of criminals.
According to Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, lemon and avocado producers will also receive protection.
Additionally, authorities plan to enhance the local police’s capabilities through training, equipment upgrades, and increased intelligence operations.
During the briefing, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard announced that the government intends to strengthen public infrastructure, planning investments of 39.3 billion Mexican pesos, including support for the private sector.
The plan’s presentation also included the ministers of health, culture, education, and energy, who outlined measures to improve living conditions in the state.
Situation in the state
Bloomberg notes that the long-standing struggle for influence has repeatedly challenged government efforts to restore security in Michoacán.
According to local media, during the four-year term of Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla of the ruling party, at least seven mayors have been killed in the state.
“Michoacan is a hot spot of cartel-driven violence as rival groups fight for control of drug routes, extortion rackets and the state’s avocado and lemon industries,” the outlet added.
Mayor’s assassination in Mexico
Uruapan mayor Carlos Manzo was shot on November 2 in broad daylight during a public event for the Day of the Dead.
Attackers opened fire on the mayor in front of several hundred people after he inaugurated a candle festival.
Previously, Carlos Manzo had declared war on drug cartels and organized crime in the region.
