Drug cartel's seizure of town in southern Mexico leads to clashes between civilians, army

[Judi Lynn]

Soldiers attacked after trying to enter small border town in south held hostage by organized crime
Jorge Antonio Rocha |
31.05.2023 - Update : 31.05.2023

MEXICO CITY

People who are reportedly residents of Frontera Comalapa in Mexico’s Chiapas state attacked soldiers and police officers with sticks, stones and Molotov cocktails Tuesday after members of state and federal agencies attempted to enter the town, which was recently taken over by an organized crime syndicate.

Local media reported that army troops, members of the National Guard and police officers attempted to bring peace to Frontera Comalapa, which borders Guatemala. ​​​​​​​

The attackers, who may be victims of forced recruitment by criminal organizations, have not been identified by authorities.

The Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), leading factions of Mexico's underworld, have fought for control of the border region in Chiapas, a critical point for the drug trade, human trafficking and gun smuggling.

The battle for territory between criminal syndicates has created a war zone for the residents of Frontera Comalapa, who have suffered from murders and disappearances at the hands of hired killers.

More:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/drug-cartels-seizure-of-town-in-southern-mexico-leads-to-clashes-between-civilians-army/2910656