A recording shared on social media reveals the death threat allegedly made by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) to the priest Marcelo Pérez Pérez before he was murdered in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, on October 20.
The priest in Chiapas was contacted by an alleged member of the CJNG, who offered him protection in exchange for collaboration. During the conversation, the cartel interlocutor mentioned that the priest enjoyed a good reputation within the ecclesiastical community and that his personal safety, as well as that of his family and parishioners, depended on his alignment with the criminal organization.
“I want to let you know, Father, that at this moment I am not representing any government group. I want to let you know that I am representing the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel, which is retaking this plaza in Chiapas, clearly at the command of Mr. Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Mr. Mencho,” is heard saying in an audio that was shared on Tik Tok.
“I imagine that you have heard about my organization present and operating throughout the State and you know very well what kind of person you are dealing with at this time, is that correct, father?” a person is heard saying in the call that was allegedly recorded by the priest.
The dialogue, which took place in an intimidating tone, included references to the violence that has affected the region and the need for pacts to reduce the crime rate. The cartel representative insisted that the priest Marcelo had to decide whether he wanted to have the CJNG as an ally or as an enemy, suggesting that the protection offered would be effective during the six years they planned to operate in the area.
“If I addressed you in this way it is because I do not believe that it would be pleasant for you that I had to interrupt a Mass celebration or any traditional celebration in the parish and unleash a massacre inside it. Clearly leaving the heads of your faithful followers, your parishioners, on the threshold of your beautiful and lovely parish. I do not believe that it is necessary, nor do I believe that it would be something pleasant for you. Or would it, Father?” says the threat to the priest.
Throughout the conversation, the CJNG member tried to persuade the priest that his cooperation was essential to guarantee the security of his community, mentioning the presence of hitmen near the parish as a form of pressure.
The priest, for his part, reiterated his commitment to peace and his trust in God, avoiding committing to the cartel’s demands.
Marcelo Pérez, 51, was shot on Sunday, October 20, 2024, after celebrating mass in the parish of the Cuxtitali neighborhood. A surveillance camera video captured the exact moment of the attack against the priest by two men on a motorcycle.
Source: infobae
