Mexico Unveils Security Operation in Michoacan After Mayor's Assassination
The Mexican government has launched a major security operation in the violence-plagued state of Michoacan following the public assassination of a local mayor, aiming to combat organized crime and improve overall security.
MEXICO CITY: In response to the escalating violence in Michoacan, particularly after the brazen public assassination of Mayor Carlos Manzo during Day of the Dead celebrations on November 1, the Mexican government has unveiled an extensive plan called the Michoacan Plan for Peace and Justice.
This operation involves over 10,500 military, air force, and National Guard members, tasked with cracking down on criminal groups, combating extortion, and dismantling drug labs and training camps, as detailed during a press conference by senior officials.
The ambitious plan entails an investment of approximately 57 billion pesos, according to President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Michoacan has witnessed a surge in violence recently, exacerbated by the killing of Manzo, who had been a vocal critic of the federal government's approach to combating organized crime.
The operation aims not only to strengthen local law enforcement agencies and the state attorney general’s office but also to enhance resources for welfare, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, and employment.
Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, and Agriculture Minister Julio Berdegue were among those present at the announcement held at Mexico's National Palace on Sunday.
President Sheinbaum emphasized that a special effort is being made for Michoacan's residents, promising to personally review the plan’s progress every 15 days and provide public updates.
The assassination of Manzo, who was shot moments after giving a speech with his young son by his side, has sparked widespread outrage.
This incident has pressured the government into action, addressing the deteriorating security situation.
The local citrus and avocado industries have long suffered from extortion, kidnappings, and killings attributed to cartel violence.
The killing of Bernardo Bravo, a prominent figure in the lime sector, in October further highlights the urgent need for intervention.
Following her husband's assassination, Manzo’s wife, Grecia Quiroz, was sworn in as the new mayor of Uruapan on Wednesday, vowing to continue her husband’s fight against criminal groups.
The individual identified as the perpetrator, 17-year-old Victor Manuel Ubaldo, was killed during the incident by security forces.
Authorities have also indicated that additional individuals were involved in Manzo's assassination.
This operation involves over 10,500 military, air force, and National Guard members, tasked with cracking down on criminal groups, combating extortion, and dismantling drug labs and training camps, as detailed during a press conference by senior officials.
The ambitious plan entails an investment of approximately 57 billion pesos, according to President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Michoacan has witnessed a surge in violence recently, exacerbated by the killing of Manzo, who had been a vocal critic of the federal government's approach to combating organized crime.
The operation aims not only to strengthen local law enforcement agencies and the state attorney general’s office but also to enhance resources for welfare, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, and employment.
Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, and Agriculture Minister Julio Berdegue were among those present at the announcement held at Mexico's National Palace on Sunday.
President Sheinbaum emphasized that a special effort is being made for Michoacan's residents, promising to personally review the plan’s progress every 15 days and provide public updates.
The assassination of Manzo, who was shot moments after giving a speech with his young son by his side, has sparked widespread outrage.
This incident has pressured the government into action, addressing the deteriorating security situation.
The local citrus and avocado industries have long suffered from extortion, kidnappings, and killings attributed to cartel violence.
The killing of Bernardo Bravo, a prominent figure in the lime sector, in October further highlights the urgent need for intervention.
Following her husband's assassination, Manzo’s wife, Grecia Quiroz, was sworn in as the new mayor of Uruapan on Wednesday, vowing to continue her husband’s fight against criminal groups.
The individual identified as the perpetrator, 17-year-old Victor Manuel Ubaldo, was killed during the incident by security forces.
Authorities have also indicated that additional individuals were involved in Manzo's assassination.