Following security operations launched after the killing of 10 public officials and businesspeople on July 18, criminal groups reportedly retreated into the state of Durango due to the increased presence of state and federal security forces, according to Zacatecas Public Security Secretary Arturo Medina Mayoral.
The official explained that the joint security strategy, which includes the participation of the Mexican Army’s “Murciélagos” unit, forced the alleged criminal groups to leave the northern mountains of Zacatecas, particularly in municipalities such as Chalchihuites and Sombrerete, before crossing into Durango.
“As a result of the security forces’ operational deployment, the criminal groups operating in that area have mainly retreated into the mountains and have now withdrawn into Durango. At this time, there are no indications that armed groups remain in the area—they have completely pulled back,” Medina Mayoral said.
Security Presence Maintained Along the Durango Border
Security forces continue to maintain a presence near the border with Súchil, Durango, while conducting patrols in communities such as 12 de Diciembre and Vicente Guerrero.
The Zacatecas Public Security Secretary also stated that officers remain deployed in the mountainous region for several days at a time to maintain pressure on criminal organizations and prevent them from reestablishing operations.
Federal Deployment to Continue
Medina Mayoral added that the deployment of federal security forces will remain permanent in the region to prevent the return of armed groups and strengthen security along the Durango–Zacatecas border.
Source: elsiglodedurango
