Mexico City – The Mexican government launched a major security operation in the state of michoacán on Sunday, deploying over 10,500 personnel from the army, air force, and National Guard in response to escalating violence and the recent assassination of a local mayor. The initiative,dubbed the Michoacán Plan for Peace and Justice,aims to dismantle criminal groups,combat extortion,and eradicate drug labs and training camps.
The deployment follows the brazen daylight murder of Carlos Manzo, mayor of Uruapan, Michoacán, on November 1st during Day of the Dead celebrations. Manzo had publicly criticized the federal government’s response to organized crime in the region. His death underscored the growing insecurity plaguing Michoacán, a key agricultural state and a hotspot in Mexico’s ongoing struggle with drug cartels and related violence. The plan represents a significant escalation in federal intervention, signaling president Claudia Sheinbaum’s commitment to restoring order in a state increasingly challenged by criminal activity.
The operation will involve an investment of 57 billion pesos (US$3.10 billion), according to Sheinbaum.Beyond a military and law enforcement surge, the plan encompasses bolstering state-level police forces and the state attorney general’s office, alongside increased resources for social programs focused on welfare, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, and employment.
senior members of Sheinbaum’s cabinet participated in the proclamation at Mexico’s National Palace, including Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, and Agriculture Minister Julio Berdegue. Michoacán has experienced a resurgence of violence in recent months, prompting calls for greater federal intervention to address the escalating crisis.