CJNG, Colombian Gangs Besiege Michoacán Indigenous Communities, Prosecutor Says

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), significantly reinforced by Colombian nationals, is actively harassing indigenous communities in the Meseta Purépecha and Cañada de los 11 Pueblos regions of Michoacán, according to state prosecutor Carlos Torres Piña. These criminal elements are reportedly targeting both community members and local guards, fueling recent violent confrontations.

Torres Piña revealed that intelligence gathered indicates a substantial presence of South Americans, primarily Colombians, operating within the organized crime ranks in the area. This influx has prompted coordinated security operations involving state and federal forces. The prosecutor noted that the CJNG, with its Colombian recruits, seeks to regain control and territory in these resource-rich regions, particularly exploiting the valuable forest resources.

"Yes, there is a group of South Americans operating there, particularly Colombians, and it is a large group, which we have been reviewing information with Sedena (Secretary of National Defense) and the Civil Guard to carry out some operations... but it is this group of Colombians who have been strengthening themselves in that area and wanted to recover territory, they wanted to enter these regions of the Meseta, mainly because of the wealth that exists, both in terms of forests and some other matters in those areas," Torres Piña explained.

Investigations suggest the group utilizes between 8 to 10 vehicles for their operations. The prosecutor also acknowledged challenges in gathering evidence due to the indigenous communities' customs and traditions, which have sometimes restricted access for investigators. Despite these hurdles, authorities have managed to collect crucial preliminary evidence. The article also references recent deadly attacks, including one in Acachuén that killed two residents and another in Sevina where two community guards were killed.

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Yes, there is a group of South Americans operating there, particularly Colombians, and it is a large group, which we have been reviewing information with Sedena (Secretary of National Defense) and the Civil Guard to carry out some operations... but it is this group of Colombians who have been strengthening themselves in that area and wanted to recover territory, they wanted to enter these regions of the Meseta, mainly because of the wealth that exists, both in terms of forests and some other matters in those areas.