On December 12, during the celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe, patron saint of Mexico, there was an armed confrontation between two rival gangs in the municipality of Villanueva, Zacatecas. Six people were killed and dozens more were wounded in the crossfire.
According to reports from the State Peace Building Committee, the violence erupted in the community of Boquilla del Carmen on Tuesday afternoon. The sounds of gunshots and screams filled the air as alleged members of the CJNG and Sinaloa Cartel engaged in a heated gunfight.
Located in central Mexico, Zacatecas has long been a key route for drug traffickers smuggling their illicit goods to the United States. The lucrative trade has led to fierce competition between rival cartels, resulting in a deadly feud that shows no signs of abating.
While authorities claim that the situation has been brought under control, reports from nearby communities suggest that the violence is still ongoing in the surrounding mountains. This ongoing battle for control of the area has not only claimed the lives of innocent civilians but has also led to a sense of fear and uncertainty among the locals.
The operation also resulted in the arrest of one of the armed members and the seizure of five long firearms. The subject will be placed at the disposal of the law for the respective investigations.
This incident is yet another example of the violence plaguing Mexico, especially in areas where drug cartels are vying for control of territory and the illegal drug market. Despite the Mexican government’s efforts to combat organized crime, security remains a constant concern for Mexican citizens.