Mexico investigates town over sign thanking drug lord

(CLO) On December 30, the Mexican President announced that prosecutors are investigating officials in a town where a sign thanked drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, better known by his nickname "El Mencho", the leader of the Jalisco cartel.

President Claudia Sheinbaum said officials in the town of Coalcoman in Michoacan state were being investigated in connection with the sign. She condemned the placement of the sign, saying "a criminal group cannot organize a public event to promote the acceptance of violence".

Federal prosecutors are now investigating whether the town mayor is linked to criminal groups or who was behind the placement of the sign.

Illustration: Unsplash

Earlier, videos on social media captured scenes at a Christmas fair in the town of Coalcoman, including a sign thanking Oseguera and his sons for giving gifts to children. The sign read: "The children of Coalcoman thank Mr. Nemesio Oseguera and his sons, 2, 3 and Delta 1, for their kind gesture. Thank you for your gifts."

Drug gangs in Mexico often give gifts or food to residents during the holidays to improve their image or build support. The gangs often use the help of residents to get information about military raids while still collecting protection money from residents.

In areas of Michoacan where the Jalisco cartel dominates, it is not unusual to see signs of gang control. The gangs set up roadblocks and attack rivals with roadside bombs or drones. They also force some residents to join anti-military protests.

Ngoc Anh (according to MN, AFP, GI)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/mexico-dieu-tra-thi-tran-vi-bien-bao-cam-on-trum-ma-tuy-post328380.html