Protests Erupt in Mexico Over Cartel Violence

Across Mexico, thousands of farmers and transport workers have taken to the streets, setting up blockades on major highways. The demonstrations are a response to cartel violence and extortion, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with President Claudia Sheinbaum and her ruling MORENA party. Many citizens feel that instead of protecting them, the government is siding with criminal organizations wreaking havoc throughout the nation.

The protests began early on a Monday morning, with unions from various transport and agricultural sectors coming together. They utilized work trucks and trailers to disrupt traffic on highways stretching across at least 22 states.

Some of the protests took place in border cities, leading to significant delays at international entry points. In Tamaulipas, authorities issued warnings for motorists to seek alternate routes, as several road closures were confirmed.

The closures aim to draw attention to the dire security landscape in Mexico, where highway robberies, car thefts, and extortion remain rampant. Farmers express that they are constantly targeted by cartels, yet face little to no action from authorities against these organized crime groups.

This wave of protests follows massive demonstrations in Mexico City, where thousands rallied for an end to what they termed the “narco government.” These earlier protests were ignited by the murder of Carlos Manzo, a beloved mayor known for his tough stance against organized crime. His shooting reportedly provoked rioters in Michoacán to set fire to the governor’s mansion and city halls in the area.