In a chilling discovery that underscores the escalating violence in Mexico, six severed heads were found on a road linking the usually calm states of Puebla and Tlaxcala early Tuesday morning. The local authorities have not disclosed the motive behind these gruesome killings, leaving questions about the involvement of any specific cartels that operate within the region.
Reports indicate that a blanket with a warning message was found at the scene, purportedly signed by a criminal group known as "La Barredora," or "the sweeper." This name has previously been linked to a lesser-known gang based in Guerrero, although it remains uncertain if they are responsible for the recent atrocities or the reasoning behind it.
The local prosecutor's office stated that the victims were men, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the discovery is currently underway, according to AFP news agency. The region, beyond its drug-trafficking issues, also suffers from rampant fuel smuggling, known locally as "huachicoleo," which has proved lucrative for criminal enterprises.
Federal authorities have yet to comment on this troubling incident as they aim to crack down on rising fentanyl trafficking in the country. Notably, Puebla and Tlaxcala are not traditionally hotspots for violent cartel activities compared to other Mexican states.
This emergence of brutality is alarming, especially following earlier incidents, such as the discovery of 20 bodies, four of which were beheaded, in Sinaloa, known for gang-related violence. Moreover, the recent shooting that left seven young individuals dead during a church festive event in Guanajuato further demonstrates the deteriorating security situation in Mexico, where violence linked to cartels has surged in recent years. Since the government's military offensive against gangs began in 2006, hundreds of thousands have lost their lives, and tens of thousands remain missing, raising urgent concerns about public safety and security across the nation.
