Gunfight between criminal groups in the Mexican state of Guerrero leaves 16 dead

A violent clash between two criminal groups in Mexico’s South Pacific state of Guerrero left 16 people dead on Thursday, authorities said. The country is grappling with a rise in violence and this incident is part of an ongoing territorial struggle in the region.

The confrontation occurred early Thursday morning around 5 a.m. in a rural mountainous region of Guerrero that has been a hotspot for cartel activity in recent years. Criminal groups often clash as they attempt to expand their control over the region.

Among the victims were two local police officers killed in the crossfire while four others were injured, according to a statement from Mexico’s Defense Ministry. The wounded officers are currently in stable condition after receiving medical treatment.

A nearby National Guard base responded to the attack and three military officers were also injured in the operation, the ministry added. Of the remaining dead, 14 were believed to be members of the criminal groups involved in the clash. Authorities arrested 11 people in connection with the shooting.

The incident highlights the ongoing violence in Mexico, particularly in areas like Guerrero, where cartels continue to wage war for control of lucrative drug routes and territories.

Melissa Enoch

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