Mexican security forces killed 12 alleged members of a criminal group and arrested nine others during a major operation in the rural town of Huitzontla, Michoacán, on Saturday, according to the country’s Security Ministry.
Security Minister Omar Harfuch confirmed via social media that three members of the Navy were injured in the Navy-led operation, which was carried out in response to escalating criminal activity in the region. The detained suspects are accused of serious crimes including homicide, extortion, and kidnapping.
Criminal groups operating in the area are known to be involved in maritime drug trafficking, and authorities say weapons and tactical equipment were recovered from the site.
The Security Ministry stated that the security forces encountered “strong aggression” from the group, prompting a forceful response “in compliance with current regulations.”
Local media outlets El Universal and La Jornada identified the suspects as members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of Mexico’s most powerful and violent drug cartels. The US government designated CJNG a terrorist organisation earlier this year due to its transnational criminal activities and brutality.
Michoacán remains one of the most volatile regions in Mexico, where rival cartels frequently clash over territory and control of drug routes.
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