Universities in western Mexico have had to shut down due to escalating cartel violence in Sinaloa, resulting in numerous murders, forced disappearances, and arson attacks, among other violent incidents. As a response, schools are transitioning to remote learning, even while claims emerge that safety is improving in the region.
This week, Sinaloa Autonomous University and the Autonomous University of Occidents announced that they would temporarily close because of the increased violence in the state. Both institutions issued statements emphasizing their priority of ensuring safety for students and the surrounding community.
It has also been reported that some local schools in municipalities like El Dorado are following the lead of these universities.
The decision to close follows a series of shootouts and targeted killings linked to rival factions of the Sinaloa cartel. Despite governmental efforts to minimize the severity of violence in Sinaloa over the past year, residents are increasingly fearful as cartel conflicts reach unprecedented levels.
Last year, reports indicated that two major factions, known as Los Chapitos and Los Mayos, have been engaged in violent confrontations, particularly after Los Chapitos orchestrated a trap that led to the arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, who is now awaiting trial in the U.S.
Calls for the resignation of Sinaloa Governor Reuben Rocha Moya have intensified due to the rampant violence. He has repeatedly denied or downplayed the severity of the situation and faces public accusations of facilitating a meeting between El Mayo and Los Chapitos, which he has denied.
