Desperate Plea from Mexican Bishops: Protect Communities from Cartels

Catholic Church leaders in southern Mexico urge the government to protect communities from drug cartels. Frightened locals are fleeing, with 600 people recently taking refuge in Guatemala. Despite government presence, the military and National Guard have not intervened to protect these vulnerable communities.

In a distressing appeal, Catholic Church leaders in southern Mexico have implored the national government to safeguard communities from ruthless drug cartels. These cartels, operating near the Guatemalan border, are extorting locals and using them as human shields.

The urgent letter, signed by Bishop Emeritus Jaime Calderón of the Tapachula Diocese, reveals communities suffering from severe poverty and extortion, now facing additional peril as drug cartels battle for smuggling routes.

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo disclosed efforts to assist Mexican refugees escaping cartel violence. Despite military presence, Mexican authorities have yet to take decisive action, further endangering these communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)