In Mexico, two states primarily controlled by drug cartels have called off their Independence Day festivities, largely due to fears surrounding cartel violence. This decision coincides with the US government’s designation of six Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.
The most notable cancellation occurred in Culiacan, Sinaloa, a central stronghold for the notorious Sinaloa cartel. Governor Reuben Rocha Moya announced this on social media. Typically, on September 15th, federal, state, and local governments partake in celebrations marking the call to arms that initiated the country’s independence movement.
For over a year, Sinaloa has experienced unprecedented violence as two main factions have been embroiled in brutal turf wars. These conflicts intensified after the arrest of Ismael “Elmailo” Zambada, who was apprehended by members of the Chapitos faction and subsequently handed over to US authorities in Texas. The Chapitos, which is led by the sons of the infamous Kingpin Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, have been at the center of this turmoil.
Initially, Sinaloa had planned a series of celebrations and concerts featuring popular Mexican musicians. However, given the escalating violence, including numerous attacks, homicides, and kidnappings by cartel operatives, Governor Rocha Moya announced that the ceremonies would be limited to a daytime event with no subsequent festivities.
Meanwhile, five municipalities in Michoacan have also canceled their celebrations. Michoacan has been a longtime epicenter of violence, with various criminal groups, including Carteles Unidos and La Familia Michoacana, vying for control of drug production and human trafficking in the area. The state has adopted increasingly severe tactics, including the use of improvised explosive devices and drones for attacks.
Morelia, the Michoacan capital, had its own celebration, but it’s worth noting that it experienced a terrorist incident back in 2008 when cartel gunmen fired hand grenades at the crowd during the Independence Day festivities.
