Feb 24 • 15:07 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina La Nacion (ES)

Search in Mexico for 23 inmates who escaped amid the wave of narco violence that followed the death of 'El Mencho'

Mexican authorities are searching for 23 inmates who escaped from a prison in Puerto Vallarta during a violent outbreak linked to the death of notorious drug lord 'El Mencho.'

In the wake of the death of Nemesio Oseguera, known as 'El Mencho,' a notorious leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Mexico has plunged into unprecedented security chaos. This crisis became particularly acute at the Regional Justice Center in Puerto Vallarta, where 23 inmates managed to escape following an armed assault on the prison. The incident that allowed for this mass prison break occurred on the same day as Oseguera's reported death, a significant event that has led to increased violence and instability across the country.

The assault involved a group of heavily armed individuals who violently breached the main entrance of the facility with a large vehicle, creating an immediate and dangerous situation. Once inside, the assailants engaged in gunfire, aiming to create chaos and assist the inmates in their escape. This escape was part of a larger wave of violence that has engulfed Mexico, with reports indicating that over 70 casualties have been attributed to clashes between rival factions following the criminal leader's demise. The scale of violence hints at possible internal struggles within the CJNG and rival groups vying for power in the narcotics trade.

Authorities are now on high alert as they intensify their efforts to recapture the escaped prisoners and restore order. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges facing law enforcement in Mexico, especially in the wake of high-profile judicial events that can trigger violent responses from organized crime. This latest escape further complicates the crisis stemming from cartel activities, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of prison security amidst rampant narco-violence in the region.

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