Zacatecas, Mexico – In a chilling reminder of the country’s violent drug cartel-related violence, authorities have discovered nine bodies in the city of Morelos, just one day after nine more were found in Fresnillo, also in Zacatecas state.
The latest discovery comes as the region is reeling from a wave of attacks and retaliation between rival criminal groups. The victims’ bodies were found with messages addressed to a specific criminal group, sparking fears of escalating violence.
“It’s a very concerning situation,” said a local resident, who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns. “We’re living in fear every day. We don’t know what’s going to happen next.”
The state prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the murders, which are believed to be linked to ongoing turf wars between drug cartels. The region is a key transit point for drugs, including the powerful synthetic painkiller fentanyl, moving north to the U.S. border.
Zacatecas is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico, with over 450,000 people murdered across the country since 2006. The state has been plagued by bloody turf battles between rival cartels, resulting in widespread violence and fear among residents.
The U.S. State Department has issued a “do not travel” advisory for Zacatecas, warning Americans to avoid the state due to the threat of crime. Authorities have also urged residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
“We urge all citizens to remain cautious and to follow instructions from local authorities,” said a spokesperson for the Mexican government. “We are doing everything in our power to bring an end to this violence and restore peace to our communities.”
The discovery of 18 bodies in just two days is a grim, yet stark reminder of the deadly toll of Mexico’ s drug cartel-related violence. As authorities struggle to contain the situation, residents are left to live with the constant fear of violence and uncertainty.
Source: News Break