A chilling reminder of the ongoing drug war hangs over Mexico's vibrant city of Guadalajara. The aftermath of a terrifying cartel rampage is still evident, with charred remains of vehicles lining the roads and scorched highways serving as a stark reminder of the power and fear wielded by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
This powerful cartel, one of the most feared in the country, responded to the killing of their leader, Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera, by setting fire to numerous vehicles, sending a clear message: their influence and ability to cause chaos remain intact, even without their chief.
As President Claudia Sheinbaum attempts to counter this narrative, speaking of peace and the commendable response of security forces, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Convoys of troops and police officers patrol the streets, but their presence seems to heighten the sense of unease among residents.
The usually bustling streets of Guadalajara are now eerily empty, with small businesses shuttered and schools closed. People are staying indoors, fearing further violence not only in Guadalajara but across the wider Jalisco state.
Among those affected is left-wing parliamentary deputy Mariana Casillas, who sees the situation as a continuation of a flawed model. She argues that the drug cartels view Mexican lives as disposable, and the government's focus on eliminating high-profile leaders fails to address the underlying issues of violence and poverty that fuel gang recruitment.
With over 60 funerals being arranged for both CJNG members and National Guard troops, the fear of escalating violence is palpable. Drug war expert Deborah Bonello echoes this sentiment, stating, "The execution of the kingpin strategy in Mexico has consistently led to more violence. When you remove a major leader, a power struggle ensues, resulting in conflicts across the country."
Guadalajara, set to host international football fans for the FIFA World Cup in June, faces a challenging situation. The prospect of Spain versus Uruguay on the city's main pitch is exciting, but the recent events may deter fans from attending.
Anwar Montoya, when asked about the World Cup, expresses doubt. "I've never been, but I don't think it's safe here."
Casillas agrees, highlighting the multiple crises Jalisco is facing, including the recent violent outburst and the ongoing crisis of the disappeared, with tens of thousands of missing persons reported since 2007.
Despite the Mexican government's assurance that Guadalajara is prepared to host a vibrant sporting event, Casillas remains firm: "The people want security, clean water, and their missing loved ones back. The World Cup is not their priority."
The situation in Guadalajara serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often controversial nature of Mexico's drug war, leaving many questions and concerns for the future.
