By Natalia Rueda 
The tranquility of Sinaloa’s citizens was shattered recently as shootouts, blockades and violent confrontations between drug cartels and military personnel made headlines.
Known by some as an intense war zone, the escalating violence has disrupted daily life in Culiacán and nearby municipalities such as Elota, Cosalá and San Ignacio. The situation has become so serious that the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, has taken the unprecedented step of suspending classes in these areas due to security concerns. This decision has sparked controversy and raised questions about the state of law and order in the region.
Informo a la sociedad sinaloense, que se suspenden las actividades escolares en los municipios de Culiacán, Elota, Cosalá y San Ignacio, el día de hoy 12 de septiembre de 2024, en todos los niveles y modalidades educativas.
— Rubén Rocha Moya (@rochamoya_) September 12, 2024
Tensions rise in Sinaloa
In the last four days alone, Sinaloa has been plagued by a wave of violence, forcing public and private schools to return to virtual learning. The state Attorney General’s Office has received an alarming number of complaints, including 16 cases of vehicle theft, 14 cases of kidnapping and 9 murders, in just three municipalities. These alarming statistics paint a bleak picture of the current reality in Sinaloa.
The Presidential Perspective
As a result, some have directed accusations against President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, criticizing him for what they see as indifference or even denial of the violent events unfolding in the region. Despite this, the president has insisted that the situation is under control, assuring the population that there are sufficient armed forces working to confront the violence. He has also acknowledged that recent events may be related to the recent arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, co-founder of the powerful Sinaloa Cartel.
Running amidst the ruins
Despite the alarming situation, some businesses such as local supermarket chains appeared to be operating normally, even amid official orders to suspend operations. Health services are reportedly still functioning, bringing a sense of normalcy to the otherwise beleaguered city.
The situation in Sinaloa has generated concern not only within Mexico but also internationally. The state has long been known as the cradle of powerful drug cartels, and recent events only serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between the authorities and these criminal groups.