Violent Clash in Central Mexico Leaves 11 Dead
A violent confrontation between suspected gang members and residents of a small farming town in central Mexico has left at least 11 people dead, authorities have reported. The clash occurred in Texcaltitlan, a town located about 65km from the state capital, and has left the community reeling from the bloodshed.
According to the security ministry in the State of Mexico, eight of the individuals killed were suspected to be tied to criminal activities, while three were members of the community. State police, working in conjunction with the National Guard and other authorities, have not yet identified the gang suspected of involvement in the confrontation, but are actively seeking more details on the incident.
Local media reports indicate that gunmen belonging to the Familia Michoacana, a notorious drug cartel, had arrived at the village demanding extortion payments from local farmers. This is not the first time that the cartel has been involved in such violent incidents, as they have been blamed for the massacre of 20 people in neighbouring Guerrero state last year.
Mexico’s drug cartels are known for extorting money from businesses through threats of violence, and the Familia Michoacana has a long history of activity in the region. Footage posted on social media depicted the chaotic scene, with villagers armed with hunting rifles engaged in combat with suspected gang members amidst bursts of gunfire. Additionally, the footage showed charred bodies and vehicles on fire, although Al Jazeera has been unable to independently verify the authenticity of the footage.
The violence in Texcaltitlan serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing influence and impact of drug cartels in Mexico, and the devastating consequences that arise from their presence in local communities. As authorities continue to investigate the incident, the town remains in shock and mourning for those who lost their lives in the clash.