“This was Baghdad”: testimonies of Argentinians who experienced the outbreak of narco violence in Mexico
The article features the experiences of Argentine residents in Mexico amidst a violent outbreak following the death of a powerful drug lord.
The article provides insight into the aftermath of the confirmed death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). His death triggered violent retaliation from rival narco groups, leading to widespread panic and chaos in cities across Mexico, particularly in the states of Jalisco and Nayarit. Reports depict horrifying scenes of gunfire, closed shops, and empty streets, illustrating a rapid breakdown of societal order in regions marked by drug-related violence.
As violence escalated, Argentine residents in these high-risk areas provided testimonies that paint a grim picture of life during this turmoil. They described hours filled with terror, as gunfights erupted nearby and the community grappled with the impacts of the void left by the drug lord's demise. The article emphasizes the stark reality of living in a region gripped by narco violence where even mundane aspects of daily life are overshadowed by fear and uncertainty.
The implications of this crisis extend beyond local borders, as the article highlights the bleak backdrop against which Mexico prepares to co-host the World Cup with the United States and Canada. This juxtaposition raises concerns regarding security and the potential impact on tourism and international perception of the country, especially amid ongoing territorial disputes among drug cartels fighting for power in a lawless environment.