In a shocking discovery on Thursday, twelve bodies were found in Guanajuato, Mexico, all showing signs of torture and bearing messages from cartels. The local authorities believe these killings are a result of disputes between organized crime groups in the region.
Guanajuato, known for its industrial prowess and tourist attractions, has become the most violent state in Mexico as per official homicide data. The bodies of three women and nine men were found at various locations in Salamanca, with some showing signs of dismemberment and gunshot wounds.
The state prosecutor’s office is investigating the crime, where messages claiming responsibility were left by the perpetrators. This incident follows a recent attack on a residential center for addiction sufferers in the same municipality, highlighting the escalating violence in the region.
Guanajuato is currently plagued by clashes between the Santa Rosa de Lima and Jalisco New Generation cartels, leading to a wave of targeted killings. The escalating violence has prompted the U.S. State Department to caution against traveling to the southern region of the state due to cartel-related violence.
Mexico, grappling with a surge in organized crime-related violence, has seen over 450,000 murders since December 2006. Against this backdrop, President Claudia Sheinbaum is set to unveil a national security plan to address the escalating crisis.