Huachicol Theft 'Shaved' by 75%, Gorilla on the Loose in Hidalgo
From vanishing fuel theft to a loose gorilla in Hidalgo, discover the latest on crime, politics, and unexpected encounters in this Mexico's news roundup.
In a surprising turn of events, the notorious crime of huachicol theft has been "shaved" by a staggering 75%. Last year, a mind-boggling 8.3 million barrels of fuel were stolen, but to the astonishment of many, Pemex only reported a shortage of 2.2 million barrels. Yes, you read that right. They managed to shave off a whopping 75% of the figures. It's as if they pulled a magic trick, making barrels of fuel vanish into thin air!
Meanwhile, President López Obrador, affectionately known as AMLO, had a notable encounter with Elizabeth Sherwood, the US Homeland Security advisor. The meeting was undoubtedly a high-stakes affair, as they discussed matters related to security between the two neighboring countries. One can only imagine the exchange of ideas and strategies that took place between these two influential figures.
In another peculiar turn of events, Mexico has humbly acknowledged the complications it faces in detecting fentanyl precursors. During a conversation with the US, Mexico admitted that the ever-increasing sophistication of the mix of substances used in fentanyl production has made it incredibly challenging to detect these precursors. It seems the bad guys are stepping up their game, making life difficult for those trying to bring them to justice.
Speaking of justice, a recent report from the FA (Federal Agency) reveals that crimes such as intentional homicide and extortion have continued to grow in Mexico, despite the deployment of over 79 thousand soldiers and marines. It's a puzzling situation, akin to trying to plug a leaky boat with a sieve. The government's efforts to tackle these crimes seem to be falling short, leaving citizens to wonder what more can be done to curb this alarming trend.
In a rather unusual twist, the 10 de marzo collective, composed of relatives of the disappeared in Tamaulipas, has proposed a "pact for peace" with the drug traffickers themselves. Yes, you heard that right! The searchers are demanding that the cartels sign a pact to stop the violence. It's an audacious move, and one can only hope that these negotiations lead to positive outcomes. After all, stranger things have happened in this country.
Switching gears to the realm of healthcare, it has come to light that a shocking 547 individuals were operated on in clinics that were closed due to meningitis concerns. The revelation by Cofepris, the Mexican health regulatory agency, highlights a severe lack of control over anesthetics and the absence of proper permits for surgeries performed in private clinics in Matamoros. It's a worrisome reminder that even in matters of life and death, regulatory oversight is crucial.
The army faced an unexpected setback in Frontera Comalapa, Chiapas, where a group of residents armed with stones and sticks prevented the army, National Guard, and state police from entering the town. The locals were determined to make their voices heard, and they made it clear that they wouldn't back down. It's a vivid reminder that sometimes people take matters into their own hands when they feel their interests are at stake.
Shifting to the political landscape, the state of Mexico is experiencing a wave of excitement as Delfina Gómez takes the lead with 55% of the preferences in the race for governor, leaving Alejandra del Moral trailing behind with 45%. According to a REFORMA poll, a change of guard seems to be in sight. Will Delfina Gómez be the one to shake up the status quo in Edomex? Only time will tell, but the momentum is certainly in her favor.
Meanwhile, the opposition is rallying against the reforms proposed by the Morenistas. Rubén Moreira, the coordinator of PRI deputies, vehemently expressed his opposition, stating that these reforms "have neither head nor tail." The battle lines are drawn, and it seems like a clash of ideologies is on the horizon.
But not all campaigns are mired in controversy. Manolo, the charismatic candidate for Governor of Coahuila representing the PRI-PAN-PRD alliance, proudly proclaims that their campaign has been orderly and free from distractions. According to him, this disciplined approach has placed them in the coveted first place. It's refreshing to see a campaign focused on the issues rather than getting caught up in the chaos and noise.
However, not everyone is fortunate enough to have a smooth campaign. In a shocking twist, the PT (Party of Labor) leadership abandoned its candidate, Ricardo Mejía, just days before the Coahuila gubernatorial election. It's a case of political opportunism at its finest, as they throw their support behind Armando Guadiana, leaving Mejía high and dry. Politics can be a fickle game indeed.
On the crime front, Teocaltiche, Jalisco, experienced a violent day that left the community on edge. Shootings, burnt cars, and the seizure of armored vehicles paint a grim picture of the confrontation that took place. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges Mexico faces in combating organized crime and maintaining peace and security.
In a heartbreaking development, Miguel Huerta, a Servant of the Nation, has been kidnapped for a staggering three months. Crime knows no bounds and respects no boundaries, as his family and friends mourn his absence and demand justice. It's a stark reminder that even those who dedicate their lives to public service are not immune to the cruel realities of criminal activity.
In a move that raised eyebrows, the INE (National Electoral Institute) has ordered Morena, the ruling party, to put a stop to the activism of the so-called 'corcholatas.' These individuals have been actively promoting presidential aspirants and holding meetings, which the INE deems inappropriate during the ongoing electoral process. It seems like even the smallest details can become sources of contention in the political arena.
And speaking of contention, the TEPJF (Electoral Tribunal of the Judicial Power of the Federation) has confirmed that infractions were committed by President AMLO during the recall process in 2022. The morning press conferences, famously known as "mañaneras," were found to have violated regulations. It's a reminder that even the highest office in the land must adhere to the rules.
Finally, in an unexpected twist of wildlife escapades, residents of Villa de Tezontepec, Hidalgo, were put on alert when a gorilla was found loose on a property. The municipality wasted no time in issuing an alert, urging residents to be cautious and vigilant. One can only imagine the adventure that ensued as authorities worked to secure the wandering primate.
And there you have it, a dose of Mexico's news. From fuel theft vanishing acts to presidential candidate drama, crime waves to kidnapped public servants, and even a loose gorilla in Hidalgo, Mexico never fails to surprise us with its colorful and unpredictable stories. Stay tuned for more!
#Alerta en el Estado de Hidalgo por #gorila suelto, el cual fue captado en un video. Autoridades piden reportar cualquier información del animal. #Video 🎥👇🏽 pic.twitter.com/STN2oswwWv
— JORGE BECERRIL JB/8 (@MrElDiablo8) May 30, 2023