A federal forces operation in the town of Huitzontla, Michoacán, left 12 alleged criminals dead and 9 arrested, all linked to the CJNG (Jalisco Cartel of the Argentine Civilian Army), as well as three marines wounded, the federal Security Cabinet reported.
The Navy led the operation, which also included members of the Ministry of National Defense, the National Guard, the State Security Secretariat, and the Attorney General’s Office (FGR).
Information from the National Intelligence Center revealed that individuals allegedly linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which operates in the border areas of the states of Michoacán, Jalisco, and Colima, were located.
The nine people arrested were part of an armed wing made up of Mexicans and former Colombian military personnel linked to this criminal organization.
The detainees are linked to recruitment activities for the CJNG, homicides, extortion, and illegal deprivation of liberty, as well as the creation of violence in the state. Various weapons and tactical equipment were also seized.
The operation was carried out in response to several citizen complaints about criminal activity in Huitzontla, a mining area with difficult access, where armed, highly violent individuals trained in the handling of high-caliber weapons and explosives were present.
The military presence generated severe aggression against Navy personnel. The alleged criminals used firearms exclusively for the Armed Forces against security personnel.
Given this, the use of force was necessary in accordance with current regulations, the Cabinet justified.
In the confrontation, 12 assailants lost their lives, while three Semar officers were injured.
The activities of criminal groups operating in that area are linked to maritime drug trafficking, where the Mexican Navy has seized more than 37 tons of cocaine hydrochloride.
Vehicles burned on Michoacán highway
A shootout, roadblocks, and the burning of at least three vehicles were reported this morning on the Benito Juárez-Zitácuaro highway in the municipality of Juárez, Michoacán.
According to local reports, two opposing organized crime groups exchanged gunfire and set fire to the vehicles.
The Michoacán Public Security Secretariat (SSP) arrived in the towns of Guanaro and Los Zapotes, where the explosions occurred.
The local Civil Guard cordoned off the area where the burned vehicles were located.
“Work is underway to restore traffic and ensure security in the area,” the SSP stated.
The incident caused panic among the population, who urged the presence of state and federal authorities on social media.
So far, no official report has been issued regarding victims or arrests.
The confrontation reportedly occurred between cells of the Jalisco Cartel and La Familia Michoacán, who are vying for control of the area.
Source: reforma
