AZMEX EXTRA 5 NOV 2012
Note: From Sinaloa; have to wonder from who they getting the Barret
rifles? Not to mention the Beretta ARX 160's, of which quite a few
have been observed lately.
They donate weapons to local police
http://www.noroeste.com.mx/publicaciones.php?
id=823522&id_seccion=23&fecha=2012-11-04
ESCUINAPA._ A total of 10 handguns, 20 magazines and a thousand
cartridges, were received as a donation by the General Department of
State Armament and Munitions, the team reinforces the weaponry with
which currently account.
Filiberto Bibriesca Sandoval, head of the law enforcement agencies,
said delivery of the weapons was made on 31 October in the capital of
the state, which were 10 Glock 9mm pistols.
In addition to the delivery of 10 additional magazines that already
have the weapons, gave them a total of one thousand rounds of
ammunition, equipment that comes to slightly remedy the lack of
weaponry.
"We lack more weapons, we must renew some already obsolete, but there
are quite useful weapons that meets the needs, there are some
elements that bring other handguns and rifles, some bring both"
explained Bibriesca Sandoval.
He said that in order to equip the corporation, since early this year
made the request for the purchase of 30 guns, which were applied in
coordination with federal, state and city to the Ministry of National
Defense.
For purchases allocated a resource of just over 800 thousand pesos,
with which to acquire ARX160 rifles, caliber 223 mm, the latest
generation of the brand Beretta, which is expected to be delivered
not later than December .
Police forces
They asked for 100 weapons from the Department of Defense
The head of the SSP said that the purchase is already requested and
have failure to authorize by the Secretary of National Defense
IONSA
11/05/2012
http://www.noroeste.com.mx/publicaciones.php?id=823710
Picture: IONSA.
The State Public Security Secretariat requested the purchase of more
than 100 weapons, including Barret rifles, to equip the state police,
said Francisco Manuel Cordova Celaya.
The head of the SSP said that the purchase is already requested and
failure to authorize the Secretary of National Defense. "They
requested an order for more heavy weapons, hopefully is approved the
sale by the armed forces in order to better serve our police," he said.
"Barretts we want 10, 12 more weapons, and need 100 more rifles and
handguns also."
He noted that with better equipment agents will have more tools to
fight crime and confront the criminals when they are attempting to
attack them.
"Made much more complicated in an ambush, because at the time that
offenders typically ride in armored cars to protect them and with
these high-caliber weapons against armor would help a lot," he said.
Córdova Celaya, forward to next year intends to purchase more heavy
vehicles for local corporations.
State Preventive Police already has two 50-caliber Barrett rifles,
delivered as a loan by the Ministry of National Defense, and two
armored 'Tiger', in a lease package.
Least 100 more rifles needed by the police to deal with crime
Thursday, November 15, 2012
AZMEX SPECIAL 2 2-11-12
AZMEX SPECIAL 2 2 NOV 2012
Note: couple background pieces.
Gang rules 6 years after start of Mexico drug war
Posted: Friday, November 2, 2012 9:28 am | Updated: 12:00 pm, Fri Nov
2, 2012.
Associated Press |
http://www.themonitor.com/news/state/article_496b509d-9b8c-5c20-
b3b0-72f96ae06bf1.html
Forest-camouflaged pickups roared to life as the Mexican soldiers
pulled on their black masks and hoisted their Heckler & Koch G3
assault rifles.
The three-truck convoy pulled out of the base to patrol the rugged,
mountainous region of the western state of Michoacan, when a raspy
voice burst out of an unencrypted radio inside one of the cabs:
"Three R's, 53." Three army vehicles, headed your way.
It wasn't a soldier's voice. The radio had picked up a call from the
Knights Templar, a quasi-religious drug cartel that controls the area
and most of the state. Its web of spies monitors the movements of the
military and police around the clock. The gang's members not only
live off methamphetamine and marijuana smuggling and extortion, they
maintain country roads, control the local economy and act as private
debt collectors for citizens frustrated with the courts, soldiers say.
"Because they're vigilant and well-organized they roll around here
with a lot of ease," said Lt. Col. Julices Gonzalez Calzada, the
leader of the patrol.
Felipe Calderon launched his presidency in December 2006 by sending
the army to Michoacan, his home state, to battle organized crime that
he said threatened to expand from drug trafficking to controlling
civil society. His administration says it has debilitated many of the
cartels with a leadership-focused offensive that has killed or
captured 25 of the country's 37 most-wanted men.
But he has failed to stop drug cartels from morphing into mafias
infiltrating society in the sun-seared Tierra Caliente, or Hot
Country, a region named for its steamy weather, but now also too hot
with gang activity for many to live and work safely. The government
annihilated the leadership of one previous cartel, La Familia
Michoacana, but a splinter group, the Knights Templar, moved in to
take control.
Rank-and-file soldiers say they feel largely powerless in the face of
an enemy that hides among the population. They say whenever they make
strategic strikes, the gang's professional-grade infrastructure is
replaced almost as fast as it's taken down.
Now the two sides largely co-exist.
---------
To get a soldier's eye view of the conflict, The Associated Press
spent two days embedded with the 51st Battalion of the 43rd Military
Zone, a vast region that's home to about 3,000 soldiers, a force
that's more than doubled since Calderon mounted his offensive. Gen.
Miguel Angel Patino, commanding officer, said his troops' work
against the gangs has "limited a lot of their activity. They don't
have the freedom to act that they used to."
But patrols through dry forests, avocado fields and hardscrabble
towns show that the cartel operates with few restrictions. Soldiers
point out pastel-colored, air-conditioned narco-mansions that stand
out from the cluster of humble rural shacks in many of the small towns.
In the deep hills around El Alcalde, a town 12 miles from Apatzingan,
is a brand-new sports arena with a cock-fighting pit and a bull-
fighting ring that seats hundreds. The stables are filled with dozens
of sleek, well-groomed horses. Soldiers say it was built and run by
the Knights Templar.
The Calderon government claims its efforts are reducing violence in
Mexico, though it stopped reporting the number of drug-related
killings more than a year ago, when it reached 47,500 since Calderon
started his term. Many private groups now put the number close to
60,000.
Indeed, things are quieter in the Tierra Caliente, where in 2009 La
Familia rounded up, tortured and dumped the bodies of 12 federal
police officers working the area.
In 2010, police battled with cartel forces for several days as gang
members hijacked and torched buses, blocking major highways in the
state capital of Morelia. Authorities say it ended with the killing
of La Familia founder Nazario Moreno Gonzalez, known as "The Craziest
One," though his body was never found.
Soldiers say confrontations are down to about one a month. But even
the general agrees it's because the Knights Templar won the war
against the rival gang.
"What the Knights Templar is doing is maintaining tight control on
organized crime in this area," Patino said. "The dominance allows the
area to stay quiet to a certain point."
Most citizens are quiet, too, shaking off questions about the drug
gang. Local residents questioned by the AP about extortions or cartel
rule declined to talk.
When the then-mayor of Apatzingan was pressed by reporters last year
about a string of kidnappings in his town, he practically broke down.
"I want to go away, I want to resign this job, because I wasn't made
for this. I can't even ensure the safety of my own children, who are
also in danger," Mayor Genaro Guizar said in an emotional interview
with the Milenio television station.
Calderon's office declined to comment directly on the situation in
the Tierra Caliente, but referred The Associated Press to a speech
the president delivered this year in Michoacan emphasizing the
importance of purging local, state and federal police forces of
corruption in order to produce trustworthy agencies capable of
investigating crimes and bringing suspects to trial.
-----------
The cartel's territory begins at the gates of the military base in
the center of Apatzingan. Each of the five entrances is watched
around the clock by the Knights Templar, as are virtually every
highway exit, toll booth and village square, according to the soldiers.
The cartel consists largely of men from the Tierra Caliente, and they
promote themselves as a mystic Christian order dedicated to
protecting the population from abuse at the hands of the military and
police. They have self-published at least two books and a variety of
pamphlets collecting the sayings and memoirs of their leaders, most
prominently the late Moreno, founder of their predecessor gang, La
Familia.
Even the troops acknowledge the cartel has a substantial degree of
local support due to its family networks, patronage of local
communities and exploitation of citizens' anger at the government.
The cartel runs "training schools," including one in Apatzingan, that
teach courses in leadership portraying cartel members as clean-living
men of honor, steeped in Asian religion alongside Catholicism, and
dedicated to protecting the people of Michoacan from a government
they say is manipulated by a ultraconservative religious group known
as El Yunque, or the Anvil.
According to cartel leaders, it is their duty to go against the
government, saying Calderon used insecurity as a pretext for
launching a bloody war.
"It has brought death and pain on thousands of homes," according to
one book attributed to Moreno, whose philosophy was adopted by
Knights Templar after the downfall of La Familia. "It was my
obligation, with my comrades, to mount this fight. It's the only way
to guarantee a change in our country."
Under Mexican law, soldiers can't formally investigate crimes and can
only stop criminal activity that occurs directly in front of them. So
they are limited to patrolling, responding to tips about crimes in
progress, searching cars at roadside checkpoints and hunting for meth
labs and marijuana fields by helicopter and on foot.
Most officers in the 43rd Military Zone carry two radios, one
encrypted for military communications, and the other to listen to the
Knights Templar watching their men. They also carry laminated cards
confiscated from cartel operatives printed with hundreds of the
gang's radio codes. The code "53" refers to the army, "69" to the
U.S.-made Humvees and "56" to military intelligence operatives.
One army officer said he had heard Templar operatives checking the
status of roads all the way to Mexico City, some six hours drive east.
On Monday, the army said, soldiers with the 43rd Military Zone,
raided a ranch named "The Horses" in village outside Apatzingan that
is believed to be the property of Enrique "Kiki" Plancarte Solis, co-
leader of the Knights Templar along with Servando "La Tuta" Gomez
Martinez.
The troops were attacked with gunfire and grenades and returned fire,
killing one of the attackers, the army said. Inside the ranch the
troops found more than 28 pounds of marijuana, a pound of crystal
meth, a smaller amount of cocaine, dozens of grenades, anti-tank
rockets, pistols and rifles, including a powerful 50-caliber sniper
rifle, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash.
The soldiers have taken down 90 labs so far this year, but the number
of arrests they've made _ 95 _ does not reflect the amount of
criminal activity they're aware of.
"All we can do is keep working, keep patrolling, moving through the
countryside and the streets, and try to find them from time to time,"
Patino said.
----------
The army says it is well-received by people in the Tierra Caliente,
though Michoacan's state commission on human rights says complaints
against the army and federal police in Apatzingan have risen sharply,
from 69 in 2008 to 391 last year.
Riding in groups of six or seven, the riflemen of the 51st Battalion
scan the traffic and the roadside from benches mounted in the backs
of their pickups. In each truck, one soldier mans a heavy weapon
mounted on a pivot behind the roof of the cab.
They pull onto a dirt road and head to a series of little towns that
are home to some of the Knights Templar leadership, including the
communally owned village of El Alcalde, where they stop at a yellow
stucco house filled with new appliances and surrounded by a chain-
link fence topped in barbed wire.
The gate is open, and the soldiers walk up to the open windows,
pulling aside the shades and peering inside. The house is cleaned
every day but rarely occupied. They have no doubt that it's owned by
a high-ranking member of the Knights Templar, Gonzalez said.
Each of the little towns in the area has such a house, newly built,
assiduously maintained and filled with luxury finishes, thick carved-
wood doors, marble floors, faux-Greek concrete columns, and
immaculately tended rose bushes. Most sit on high ground at the edge
of the towns, offering vistas of the roads and other houses. The
money that paid for them didn't come just from avocado trees.
Outside of town, a shrine to La Familia founder Moreno Gonzalez sits
atop a steep flight of concrete steps, dominating the road. Dozens of
votive candles set on the chapel steps have been smashed to shards,
the glass panels of the chapel doors are broken and deep pockmarks,
apparently from bullets, mar the doors.
A black "Z' has been spray-painted on the front of the chapel, the
trademark of the paramilitary Zetas cartel that battled the Knights
Templar and La Familia before being largely driven out by the Knights.
Gonzalez said he believes the Knights Templar left the vandalism
unrepaired as a way of inspiring their followers to maintain
vigilance against future Zeta incursions.
Soldiers say the Knights Templar extort protection money from nearly
every legitimate business in the Tierra Caliente, including at least
three taxes on the region's famous avocados _ one on the owners of
the fields based on the area they own, one charged per ton on the
middlemen who buy the crop and a third for exporters based on every
kilogram of avocados.
The cartel also taxes Michoacan's lemon farmers as well as urban
stores and markets.
"They've come as far as fixing the price of a tortilla or a kilo of
meat," Gonzalez said. "They give the order that everyone is going to
sell it for 60 pesos and all of butchers adjust their price to 60
pesos a kilo."
The military has found ledgers with budgets for road maintenance in
rural areas. Around El Alcalde, in the neighboring towns of
Guanajatillo, Moreno's reputed birthplace, and Los Laureles, roads
are notably smoother than elsewhere, with well-tended culverts and
surrounding fields of freshly planted and rigorously cared-for sorghum.
Gonzalez says local people have reported that the Knights Templar
have planted hundreds of acres of the crop, and the equipment in the
fields is expensive and new, including a shiny green John Deere
combine harvester. Following the trail of funds earned from criminal
activity falls to civilian prosecutors and investigators, and the
soldiers say they see virtually no evidence that authorities are
tracking the Knight Templars' money.
Note: even CNN?
Why is Mexico drug war being ignored?
By Ted Galen Carpenter, Special to CNN
http://globalpublicsquare.blogs.cnn.com/2012/10/30/why-is-mexico-drug-
war-being-ignored/?hpt=hp_bn2
Ted Galen Carpenter, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, is the
author of nine books on international affairs, including the just
released The Fire Next Door: Mexico's Drug Violence and the Danger to
America. The views expressed are his own.
A striking feature of the presidential debate on foreign policy was
the total lack of attention given to Latin America –notably the drug
violence wracking our next door neighbor, Mexico. Nearly 60,000
people have perished since 2006 in the Mexican government's military-
led offensive against the country's powerful, ruthless drug cartels.
But while President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney both obsessed about
the Middle East, they virtually ignored Washington's relations with
our southern neighbors. After a brief observation from Romney near
the start of the debate that the region offered important – and
neglected – economic opportunities for the United States, both
candidates quickly abandoned the Western Hemisphere.
That was extraordinarily myopic. Given its geographic proximity,
historical ties, and mounting importance as an arena for trade and
investment, Latin America should be high on Washington's diplomatic
and economic agenda. And near the top of the national security agenda
should be the alarming developments involving the drug violence in
Mexico.
Killings continue to rise, and hardly a week passes without a new
report of grisly acts south of the border. Portions of several key
cities, especially Ciudad Juarez and Monterrey, are now virtual war
zones. The Mexican government's control is becoming precarious in
major swaths of territory, including the crucial northern states of
Nuevo Leon, Chihuahua, and Tamaulipas. Several of the cartels,
especially the Sinaloa cartel and the ultra-violent Zetas, pose a
threat to the integrity of the Mexican state.
More from CNN: Bodies for billions
Equally troubling, the turmoil in Mexico is spreading to Central
America and beginning to seep over the border into the United States.
One would think that such a national security problem would merit
some attention from the incumbent president and the man who aims to
replace him.
Indeed, Mexican opinion leaders were justifiably miffed at the
failure to address the drug war. Prominent journalist Leon Krauss's
widely circulated tweet summarized the frustration. "Mexico, facing
100,000 deaths, neighbor to the United States, didn't deserve a
single mention tonight. A disgrace."
Mexico's problems with the Sinaloa cartel and the Zetas are now
plaguing the countries of Central America. According to Leonel Ruíz,
Guatemala's federal prosecutor for narcotics offenses, the Zetas had
gained control of nearly half of Guatemala's territory. Kevin Casas-
Zamora, a former vice president of Costa Rica, suggest the figure is
about 40 percent.
The cartels' penetration of Honduras and El Salvador has also reached
the point that in significant portions of those countries
governmental control is eroding or already nonexistent. El Salvador's
president, Mauricio Funes, admits that the Zetas successfully bribe
elite police units with $5,000 monthly payments to cooperate with the
cartel and to steal high-powered weapons and grenades from the
military. Honduran President Porfirio Lobo argues that in his
country, drug gang members now outnumber police officers and soldiers.
Even Costa Rica, long an enclave of democracy and stability in the
region, has come under growing pressure. The drug trade there is more
prominent than ever before, and the Obama administration for the
first time put that country on the official list of "major drug
transit or major drug-producing countries."
Most importantly, Mexico's troubles are also beginning to afflict the
United States. According to law enforcement authorities, Mexican drug
organizations now have ties to criminal gangs in at least 230
American cities, including all of the 50 largest cities. The cartels'
presence now even extends to relatively small cities and, in some
cases, to rural counties – and not just in the southwestern states,
but portions of the South, the Midwest, and other regions.
People in impoverished Mexican-American communities along the border
are feeling the menace of drug cartel enforcers. As Associated Press
correspondent Paul Weber reported from Fort Hancock, Texas: "When
black SUVs trail school buses around here, no one dismisses it as
routine traffic. And, as I've noted before, when three tough-looking
Mexican men pace around the high school gym during a basketball game,
no one assumes they're just fans…Mexican families fleeing the
violence have moved here or just sent their children, and authorities
and residents says gangsters have followed them across the Rio
Grande" in a campaign of intimidation.
Even Anglo populations along the border are becoming nervous.
Complaints are surging from ranchers in the borderlands of Arizona,
New Mexico, and Texas that intruders use their properties with
impunity as routes to enter the United States. And the level of fear
is rising as more and more of the uninvited seem to be involved in
drug smuggling rather than being ordinary people looking for work and
better lives in the United States.
While Romney and Obama obsess about Iran, Syria, Afghanistan, and
virtually every development in the Middle East, North Africa, and
Central Asia, we have a significant security problem brewing much
closer to home. Yet that issue did not merit even a single sentence
in a presidential debate supposedly devoted to foreign policy. That
is a classic case of blind spots and misplaced priorities. But the
candidate elected president on November 6 will not have the luxury of
ignoring the drug violence on our southern border.
Note: couple background pieces.
Gang rules 6 years after start of Mexico drug war
Posted: Friday, November 2, 2012 9:28 am | Updated: 12:00 pm, Fri Nov
2, 2012.
Associated Press |
http://www.themonitor.com/news/state/article_496b509d-9b8c-5c20-
b3b0-72f96ae06bf1.html
Forest-camouflaged pickups roared to life as the Mexican soldiers
pulled on their black masks and hoisted their Heckler & Koch G3
assault rifles.
The three-truck convoy pulled out of the base to patrol the rugged,
mountainous region of the western state of Michoacan, when a raspy
voice burst out of an unencrypted radio inside one of the cabs:
"Three R's, 53." Three army vehicles, headed your way.
It wasn't a soldier's voice. The radio had picked up a call from the
Knights Templar, a quasi-religious drug cartel that controls the area
and most of the state. Its web of spies monitors the movements of the
military and police around the clock. The gang's members not only
live off methamphetamine and marijuana smuggling and extortion, they
maintain country roads, control the local economy and act as private
debt collectors for citizens frustrated with the courts, soldiers say.
"Because they're vigilant and well-organized they roll around here
with a lot of ease," said Lt. Col. Julices Gonzalez Calzada, the
leader of the patrol.
Felipe Calderon launched his presidency in December 2006 by sending
the army to Michoacan, his home state, to battle organized crime that
he said threatened to expand from drug trafficking to controlling
civil society. His administration says it has debilitated many of the
cartels with a leadership-focused offensive that has killed or
captured 25 of the country's 37 most-wanted men.
But he has failed to stop drug cartels from morphing into mafias
infiltrating society in the sun-seared Tierra Caliente, or Hot
Country, a region named for its steamy weather, but now also too hot
with gang activity for many to live and work safely. The government
annihilated the leadership of one previous cartel, La Familia
Michoacana, but a splinter group, the Knights Templar, moved in to
take control.
Rank-and-file soldiers say they feel largely powerless in the face of
an enemy that hides among the population. They say whenever they make
strategic strikes, the gang's professional-grade infrastructure is
replaced almost as fast as it's taken down.
Now the two sides largely co-exist.
---------
To get a soldier's eye view of the conflict, The Associated Press
spent two days embedded with the 51st Battalion of the 43rd Military
Zone, a vast region that's home to about 3,000 soldiers, a force
that's more than doubled since Calderon mounted his offensive. Gen.
Miguel Angel Patino, commanding officer, said his troops' work
against the gangs has "limited a lot of their activity. They don't
have the freedom to act that they used to."
But patrols through dry forests, avocado fields and hardscrabble
towns show that the cartel operates with few restrictions. Soldiers
point out pastel-colored, air-conditioned narco-mansions that stand
out from the cluster of humble rural shacks in many of the small towns.
In the deep hills around El Alcalde, a town 12 miles from Apatzingan,
is a brand-new sports arena with a cock-fighting pit and a bull-
fighting ring that seats hundreds. The stables are filled with dozens
of sleek, well-groomed horses. Soldiers say it was built and run by
the Knights Templar.
The Calderon government claims its efforts are reducing violence in
Mexico, though it stopped reporting the number of drug-related
killings more than a year ago, when it reached 47,500 since Calderon
started his term. Many private groups now put the number close to
60,000.
Indeed, things are quieter in the Tierra Caliente, where in 2009 La
Familia rounded up, tortured and dumped the bodies of 12 federal
police officers working the area.
In 2010, police battled with cartel forces for several days as gang
members hijacked and torched buses, blocking major highways in the
state capital of Morelia. Authorities say it ended with the killing
of La Familia founder Nazario Moreno Gonzalez, known as "The Craziest
One," though his body was never found.
Soldiers say confrontations are down to about one a month. But even
the general agrees it's because the Knights Templar won the war
against the rival gang.
"What the Knights Templar is doing is maintaining tight control on
organized crime in this area," Patino said. "The dominance allows the
area to stay quiet to a certain point."
Most citizens are quiet, too, shaking off questions about the drug
gang. Local residents questioned by the AP about extortions or cartel
rule declined to talk.
When the then-mayor of Apatzingan was pressed by reporters last year
about a string of kidnappings in his town, he practically broke down.
"I want to go away, I want to resign this job, because I wasn't made
for this. I can't even ensure the safety of my own children, who are
also in danger," Mayor Genaro Guizar said in an emotional interview
with the Milenio television station.
Calderon's office declined to comment directly on the situation in
the Tierra Caliente, but referred The Associated Press to a speech
the president delivered this year in Michoacan emphasizing the
importance of purging local, state and federal police forces of
corruption in order to produce trustworthy agencies capable of
investigating crimes and bringing suspects to trial.
-----------
The cartel's territory begins at the gates of the military base in
the center of Apatzingan. Each of the five entrances is watched
around the clock by the Knights Templar, as are virtually every
highway exit, toll booth and village square, according to the soldiers.
The cartel consists largely of men from the Tierra Caliente, and they
promote themselves as a mystic Christian order dedicated to
protecting the population from abuse at the hands of the military and
police. They have self-published at least two books and a variety of
pamphlets collecting the sayings and memoirs of their leaders, most
prominently the late Moreno, founder of their predecessor gang, La
Familia.
Even the troops acknowledge the cartel has a substantial degree of
local support due to its family networks, patronage of local
communities and exploitation of citizens' anger at the government.
The cartel runs "training schools," including one in Apatzingan, that
teach courses in leadership portraying cartel members as clean-living
men of honor, steeped in Asian religion alongside Catholicism, and
dedicated to protecting the people of Michoacan from a government
they say is manipulated by a ultraconservative religious group known
as El Yunque, or the Anvil.
According to cartel leaders, it is their duty to go against the
government, saying Calderon used insecurity as a pretext for
launching a bloody war.
"It has brought death and pain on thousands of homes," according to
one book attributed to Moreno, whose philosophy was adopted by
Knights Templar after the downfall of La Familia. "It was my
obligation, with my comrades, to mount this fight. It's the only way
to guarantee a change in our country."
Under Mexican law, soldiers can't formally investigate crimes and can
only stop criminal activity that occurs directly in front of them. So
they are limited to patrolling, responding to tips about crimes in
progress, searching cars at roadside checkpoints and hunting for meth
labs and marijuana fields by helicopter and on foot.
Most officers in the 43rd Military Zone carry two radios, one
encrypted for military communications, and the other to listen to the
Knights Templar watching their men. They also carry laminated cards
confiscated from cartel operatives printed with hundreds of the
gang's radio codes. The code "53" refers to the army, "69" to the
U.S.-made Humvees and "56" to military intelligence operatives.
One army officer said he had heard Templar operatives checking the
status of roads all the way to Mexico City, some six hours drive east.
On Monday, the army said, soldiers with the 43rd Military Zone,
raided a ranch named "The Horses" in village outside Apatzingan that
is believed to be the property of Enrique "Kiki" Plancarte Solis, co-
leader of the Knights Templar along with Servando "La Tuta" Gomez
Martinez.
The troops were attacked with gunfire and grenades and returned fire,
killing one of the attackers, the army said. Inside the ranch the
troops found more than 28 pounds of marijuana, a pound of crystal
meth, a smaller amount of cocaine, dozens of grenades, anti-tank
rockets, pistols and rifles, including a powerful 50-caliber sniper
rifle, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash.
The soldiers have taken down 90 labs so far this year, but the number
of arrests they've made _ 95 _ does not reflect the amount of
criminal activity they're aware of.
"All we can do is keep working, keep patrolling, moving through the
countryside and the streets, and try to find them from time to time,"
Patino said.
----------
The army says it is well-received by people in the Tierra Caliente,
though Michoacan's state commission on human rights says complaints
against the army and federal police in Apatzingan have risen sharply,
from 69 in 2008 to 391 last year.
Riding in groups of six or seven, the riflemen of the 51st Battalion
scan the traffic and the roadside from benches mounted in the backs
of their pickups. In each truck, one soldier mans a heavy weapon
mounted on a pivot behind the roof of the cab.
They pull onto a dirt road and head to a series of little towns that
are home to some of the Knights Templar leadership, including the
communally owned village of El Alcalde, where they stop at a yellow
stucco house filled with new appliances and surrounded by a chain-
link fence topped in barbed wire.
The gate is open, and the soldiers walk up to the open windows,
pulling aside the shades and peering inside. The house is cleaned
every day but rarely occupied. They have no doubt that it's owned by
a high-ranking member of the Knights Templar, Gonzalez said.
Each of the little towns in the area has such a house, newly built,
assiduously maintained and filled with luxury finishes, thick carved-
wood doors, marble floors, faux-Greek concrete columns, and
immaculately tended rose bushes. Most sit on high ground at the edge
of the towns, offering vistas of the roads and other houses. The
money that paid for them didn't come just from avocado trees.
Outside of town, a shrine to La Familia founder Moreno Gonzalez sits
atop a steep flight of concrete steps, dominating the road. Dozens of
votive candles set on the chapel steps have been smashed to shards,
the glass panels of the chapel doors are broken and deep pockmarks,
apparently from bullets, mar the doors.
A black "Z' has been spray-painted on the front of the chapel, the
trademark of the paramilitary Zetas cartel that battled the Knights
Templar and La Familia before being largely driven out by the Knights.
Gonzalez said he believes the Knights Templar left the vandalism
unrepaired as a way of inspiring their followers to maintain
vigilance against future Zeta incursions.
Soldiers say the Knights Templar extort protection money from nearly
every legitimate business in the Tierra Caliente, including at least
three taxes on the region's famous avocados _ one on the owners of
the fields based on the area they own, one charged per ton on the
middlemen who buy the crop and a third for exporters based on every
kilogram of avocados.
The cartel also taxes Michoacan's lemon farmers as well as urban
stores and markets.
"They've come as far as fixing the price of a tortilla or a kilo of
meat," Gonzalez said. "They give the order that everyone is going to
sell it for 60 pesos and all of butchers adjust their price to 60
pesos a kilo."
The military has found ledgers with budgets for road maintenance in
rural areas. Around El Alcalde, in the neighboring towns of
Guanajatillo, Moreno's reputed birthplace, and Los Laureles, roads
are notably smoother than elsewhere, with well-tended culverts and
surrounding fields of freshly planted and rigorously cared-for sorghum.
Gonzalez says local people have reported that the Knights Templar
have planted hundreds of acres of the crop, and the equipment in the
fields is expensive and new, including a shiny green John Deere
combine harvester. Following the trail of funds earned from criminal
activity falls to civilian prosecutors and investigators, and the
soldiers say they see virtually no evidence that authorities are
tracking the Knight Templars' money.
Note: even CNN?
Why is Mexico drug war being ignored?
By Ted Galen Carpenter, Special to CNN
http://globalpublicsquare.blogs.cnn.com/2012/10/30/why-is-mexico-drug-
war-being-ignored/?hpt=hp_bn2
Ted Galen Carpenter, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, is the
author of nine books on international affairs, including the just
released The Fire Next Door: Mexico's Drug Violence and the Danger to
America. The views expressed are his own.
A striking feature of the presidential debate on foreign policy was
the total lack of attention given to Latin America –notably the drug
violence wracking our next door neighbor, Mexico. Nearly 60,000
people have perished since 2006 in the Mexican government's military-
led offensive against the country's powerful, ruthless drug cartels.
But while President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney both obsessed about
the Middle East, they virtually ignored Washington's relations with
our southern neighbors. After a brief observation from Romney near
the start of the debate that the region offered important – and
neglected – economic opportunities for the United States, both
candidates quickly abandoned the Western Hemisphere.
That was extraordinarily myopic. Given its geographic proximity,
historical ties, and mounting importance as an arena for trade and
investment, Latin America should be high on Washington's diplomatic
and economic agenda. And near the top of the national security agenda
should be the alarming developments involving the drug violence in
Mexico.
Killings continue to rise, and hardly a week passes without a new
report of grisly acts south of the border. Portions of several key
cities, especially Ciudad Juarez and Monterrey, are now virtual war
zones. The Mexican government's control is becoming precarious in
major swaths of territory, including the crucial northern states of
Nuevo Leon, Chihuahua, and Tamaulipas. Several of the cartels,
especially the Sinaloa cartel and the ultra-violent Zetas, pose a
threat to the integrity of the Mexican state.
More from CNN: Bodies for billions
Equally troubling, the turmoil in Mexico is spreading to Central
America and beginning to seep over the border into the United States.
One would think that such a national security problem would merit
some attention from the incumbent president and the man who aims to
replace him.
Indeed, Mexican opinion leaders were justifiably miffed at the
failure to address the drug war. Prominent journalist Leon Krauss's
widely circulated tweet summarized the frustration. "Mexico, facing
100,000 deaths, neighbor to the United States, didn't deserve a
single mention tonight. A disgrace."
Mexico's problems with the Sinaloa cartel and the Zetas are now
plaguing the countries of Central America. According to Leonel Ruíz,
Guatemala's federal prosecutor for narcotics offenses, the Zetas had
gained control of nearly half of Guatemala's territory. Kevin Casas-
Zamora, a former vice president of Costa Rica, suggest the figure is
about 40 percent.
The cartels' penetration of Honduras and El Salvador has also reached
the point that in significant portions of those countries
governmental control is eroding or already nonexistent. El Salvador's
president, Mauricio Funes, admits that the Zetas successfully bribe
elite police units with $5,000 monthly payments to cooperate with the
cartel and to steal high-powered weapons and grenades from the
military. Honduran President Porfirio Lobo argues that in his
country, drug gang members now outnumber police officers and soldiers.
Even Costa Rica, long an enclave of democracy and stability in the
region, has come under growing pressure. The drug trade there is more
prominent than ever before, and the Obama administration for the
first time put that country on the official list of "major drug
transit or major drug-producing countries."
Most importantly, Mexico's troubles are also beginning to afflict the
United States. According to law enforcement authorities, Mexican drug
organizations now have ties to criminal gangs in at least 230
American cities, including all of the 50 largest cities. The cartels'
presence now even extends to relatively small cities and, in some
cases, to rural counties – and not just in the southwestern states,
but portions of the South, the Midwest, and other regions.
People in impoverished Mexican-American communities along the border
are feeling the menace of drug cartel enforcers. As Associated Press
correspondent Paul Weber reported from Fort Hancock, Texas: "When
black SUVs trail school buses around here, no one dismisses it as
routine traffic. And, as I've noted before, when three tough-looking
Mexican men pace around the high school gym during a basketball game,
no one assumes they're just fans…Mexican families fleeing the
violence have moved here or just sent their children, and authorities
and residents says gangsters have followed them across the Rio
Grande" in a campaign of intimidation.
Even Anglo populations along the border are becoming nervous.
Complaints are surging from ranchers in the borderlands of Arizona,
New Mexico, and Texas that intruders use their properties with
impunity as routes to enter the United States. And the level of fear
is rising as more and more of the uninvited seem to be involved in
drug smuggling rather than being ordinary people looking for work and
better lives in the United States.
While Romney and Obama obsess about Iran, Syria, Afghanistan, and
virtually every development in the Middle East, North Africa, and
Central Asia, we have a significant security problem brewing much
closer to home. Yet that issue did not merit even a single sentence
in a presidential debate supposedly devoted to foreign policy. That
is a classic case of blind spots and misplaced priorities. But the
candidate elected president on November 6 will not have the luxury of
ignoring the drug violence on our southern border.
AZMEX SPECIAL 2-11-12
AZMEX SPECIAL 2 NOV 2012
Note: more sad background news from the Sierra Tarahumara Computer
english
The drug war in the Sierra Tarahumara and the fall of a 'Robin Hood'
Patricia Mayorga
October 31, 2012 · 7 Comments
Feature EspecialAZMEX
Ghosts of the Sierra Tarahumara. Photo: Ricardo Ruiz
Ghosts of the Sierra Tarahumara.
Photo: Ricardo Ruiz
http://www.proceso.com.mx/?p=324055
Chihuahua, Chih. (Ap). - The execution of the head of the Sinaloa
cartel in the municipality of Uruachi, Antonio Erives Arduño, 39, on
Saturday, warned the villagers of the region. Since the end of March
last year, the leader of the criminal group in Uruachi positioned as
the "protector" of the people, by the lack of response and security
guarantees from authorities at all levels.
Toño Erives, as he was known, helped people with money, pantries,
defended who did not get involved with him, rescued teens were
recruited by another group of offenders, but also enlistaba or
"hooked" on his .
For a year, Antonio Erives managed to keep "calm" the town, but last
Saturday morning came his rival, a leader of the criminal group Line,
nicknamed El Vaquero, to fight the territory. The fighting kept the
inhabitants in their homes.
According to local authorities, there were several dead, although the
exact number is unknown. The confrontation lasted more than five hours.
In the Sierra Tarahumara it seems that there is permission to kill.
Authorities and blame society will endorse the same families,
communities that have cultivated and produced for decades, marijuana
and poppy, mostly without realizing that violence has reached entire
villages and manufactured thousands of victims who remain in anonymous.
The clashes between drug traffickers are historical, residents say
there have always been people armed, indigenous and mestizos have
always grown drugs. And this justification seems to extend to give
permission to kill anyone, regardless of the cause or how many there
are, because the Sierra of Chihuahua is the "no man's land".
The power of Toño Erives
The last week of March and early April 2011, the confrontation
between two criminal groups, the Sinaloa cartel and La Linea, took an
entire village to spend the night on the mountain. They slept that
week to weather and low temperatures. It was in Jicamórachi, Uruachi
Township.
On the morning of April 9, Lidia, niece Antonio Erives policy, down
from a mountain. She was accompanied by her mother, several aunts and
a group of children who had fled after unknown assailants burned five
of its properties.
Toño Erives, one of the uncles of her husband (who was murdered in
2009 at age 19) climbed important positions in La Linea, the Juarez
cartel arm. He soon rose to prominence in the organization, but the
Sinaloa cartel persuaded him to join them and began its power in the
region.
"He was a noble man says Lidia, gave protection, helping people, paid
them the trucks to go to hospitals. He is a man with handsome
features, nice people. "
In March 2011, reached El Vaquero, a leader of the line, and former
head of Erives to Jicamórachi. There was a queen coronation ball.
There was a dispute between the same group, local residents said that
one of them had a van loaded with drugs and then killed one of the men.
Two days later, a command with federal police clothing burned six
houses, among them that of the village doctor, and several vehicles.
The rebel group entered the village without specific target shooting.
The people, the elderly, children, entire families, ran to the
mountain. Jicamórachi is nestled between several mountains.
Some families amounted to flee and more than half of the 122 families
of the village did not return, said one of the ejido excomisarias
Tepehuano source. The settlers remained throughout a weekend in the
mountains, the truck dealers and not reaching Jicamórachi risk
involved by the way. The children became ill, the weather was cool,
reason forced to return home.
Of the people who remained in the bush and not flee to other cities
returned nearly everyone except the family of Lydia, who remained in
the bush with her aunts. The houses that burned the armed group were
family. They also burned a carpenter, owned by Antonio Erives potato.
In early April, the army came to settle in the primary Jicamórachi
and that's how the people could return to their homes.
Frightened, Lidia down from the mountain, not issued word, just
nodded his desire was to stay with her mother and her in-laws. He
refused to leave that town where he lived a short lived marriage and
face to face with violence, one that came to collect bills and
naturalized unlawful practice for decades in the Sierra Tarahumara.
At that time, she evaded any look who asked details of those violent
events. He proposed to go out of town with his family, but he
declined, said his desire was not left alone to her mother and her
aunts.
A week later, left the village with her in-laws. Single State Police
offered support to leave the village by helicopter. They arrived in
Sonora and weeks later, Lydia decided to go with his family to one of
the major cities of the state. He got a job at a department store, he
was calm and during your lunch hour, agreed to talk about his life in
Uruachi.
He accepted that requires counseling. She was determined to resume
his life. A few weeks later married and now expecting a baby.
Wave of shootings
After the gunmen took the town of Jicamórachi against Erives, in
March 2011, he and his men ambushed a motorcade of opposing group,
who was passing by one of the roads in the municipality. White was
the leader of another group, The Cowboy, who managed to escape and
flee in an armored vehicle, said a teenager Lydia's family that also
is part of the group Erives.
In retaliation, days later, people in charge of The Cowboy took a
passenger bus which was traveling Erives Antonio's sister, a
councilor of Uruachi. Gunmen kidnapped her and began the negotiation:
the place of women in return.
The agreement was found in a location near Gosogachi.
The councilor was taken by helicopter and delivered to her brother,
but she had been tortured: burned feet. After receiving his sister,
"became the war", both groups faced from different hills. Won the
tone group.
In that same period, another village of Uruachi, Memelichi, was also
taken. For emails, the victims told their acquaintances who would not
let anyone leave the village. Out of fear, the men ran to hide, but
women and children stayed in the village.
After the "war", the enemy of Erives arrived with about 70 people
armed to the county seat to begin a five-hour shootout. Also
participating group Toño, poorly armed policemen and "three or four
young men" who climbed to the roofs to shoot for rivals did not know
where the shots came.
Firing from rooftops and killed several. The people with whom it was
possible to have telephone communications, claimed that they saw
wounded and killed several, but the same group took the bodies, so it
is unknown the exact number of those killed or wounded.
The ladies saw teenagers related that enter through their yards with
big guns, were fearful. They say people in the "war" that had held
several laborers whit apple, they were recruited.
The mayor, Aldo Campos Rascon, released a day later, the people were
in shock, many houses had shot and glasses crashed vehicles. He said
they were about 10 people that had lesions. The mayor requested
permanent presence of the armed forces to try to contain the violence.
"If nothing is high with this situation, the Sierra will become a
tinderbox. It is giving the case the population is arming or want to
participate in one way or another in these groups and that more are,
are young people. "
"It's little bit of everything, people get tired of living like this,
in fear, trying to take a stand one way or another. We are
complicated and if we are not careful we will return in the short
term a tinderbox. People are concerned, there is mistrust, "said the
mayor.
In response, suddenly, all the inhabitants of municipality were
protected Erives Toño and his people, who was supplied authority
functions, from protecting their lives to support transfers to
hospitals and feeding.
Since that time, in late March and early April 2011 executions were
isolated and very sporadic, until last weekend, when the group struck
contrary to Antonio Erives, who had become the "Robin Hood" Uruachi
dwellers. Now the fear is how to accommodate both groups and leaders
take decisions.
automatically translated by Google
La narcoguerra en la Sierra Tarahumara y la caída de un 'Robin Hood'
Patricia Mayorga
31 de octubre de 2012 · 7 Comentarios
Reportaje EspecialAZMEX
Los fantasmas de la Sierra Tarahumara. Foto: Ricardo Ruíz
Los fantasmas de la Sierra Tarahumara.
Foto: Ricardo Ruíz
http://www.proceso.com.mx/?p=324055
CHIHUAHUA, Chih. (apro).- La ejecución del jefe del cártel de Sinaloa
en el municipio de Uruachi, Antonio Erives Arduño, de 39 años, el
sábado pasado, alertó a los habitantes de los poblados de la región.
Desde finales de marzo del año pasado, el líder del grupo delictivo
se posicionó en Uruachi como el "protector" de los ciudadanos, ante
la falta de respuesta y garantías de seguridad por las autoridades de
todos los niveles.
Toño Erives, como se le conocía, ayudaba a la gente con dinero, con
despensas; defendía a quien no se metía con él, rescataba a
adolescentes que eran reclutados por otro grupo para delinquir, pero
también los enlistaba o "enganchaba" en el suyo.
Durante un año, Antonio Erives logró mantener en "calma" el
municipio, pero el sábado pasado por la mañana llegó su rival, uno de
los líderes del grupo criminal La Línea, apodado El Vaquero, para
pelear el territorio. El enfrentamiento mantuvo a los habitantes en
sus viviendas.
De acuerdo con las autoridades locales, fueron varios los muertos,
aunque se desconoce el número preciso. El enfrentamiento duró más de
cinco horas.
En la Sierra Tarahumara tal parece que hay permiso para matar.
Autoridades y sociedad le endosan la culpa a las mismas familias, a
las comunidades que han sembrado y producido, durante décadas,
mariguana y amapola, principalmente, sin darse cuenta de que la
violencia ha alcanzado a poblados enteros y fabricado miles de
víctimas que permanecen en el anonimato.
Los enfrentamientos entre narcotraficantes son históricos, los
pobladores dicen que siempre ha habido gente armada; indígenas y
mestizos siempre han sembrado droga. Y esa justificación parece
extenderse para dar permiso de matar a quien sea, sin importar la
causa ni cuántos sean, porque la Sierra de Chihuahua es la "tierra de
nadie".
El poderío de Toño Erives
La última semana de marzo y principios de abril de 2011, el
enfrentamiento entre los dos grupos delictivos, el cártel de Sinaloa
y La Línea, llevó a un pueblo entero a pasar las noches en el monte.
Durmieron esa semana a la intemperie y con bajas temperaturas. Fue en
Jicamórachi, del municipio de Uruachi.
La mañana del 9 de abril, Lidia, sobrina política de Antonio Erives,
bajó de una de las montañas. La acompañaban su suegra, varias tías y
un grupo de niños, quienes habían huido después de que unos
desconocidos quemaron cinco de sus propiedades.
Toño Erives, uno de los tíos de su esposo (quien fue asesinado en
2009 a los 19 años) escaló importantes posiciones en La Línea, brazo
del cártel de Juárez. Pronto comenzó a destacar en esa organización;
sin embargo, el cártel de Sinaloa lo convenció para que se uniera a
ellos y comenzó su poderío en la región.
"Era un hombre noble –dice Lidia–, daba protección, ayudaba a la
gente, les prestaba las trocas para ir a los hospitales. Es un hombre
con facciones atractivas, buena gente."
En marzo de 2011, llegó El Vaquero, uno de los líderes de La Línea, y
exjefe de Erives a Jicamórachi. Había un baile de coronación de
reina. Hubo un pleito entre el mismo grupo, los vecinos del lugar
indicaron que uno de ellos llevaba una camioneta cargada con droga y
ahí mataron a uno de los hombres.
Dos días después, un comando con vestimenta de policías federales
quemó seis casas, entre éstas la del médico del pueblo, y varios
vehículos. El grupo rebelde ingresó al pueblo disparando sin blanco
específico. La gente, ancianos, niños, familias completas, corrieron
al monte. Jicamórachi está enclavado entre varias montañas.
Algunas familias alcanzaron a huir y más de la mitad de las 122
familias del poblado ya no regresó, indicó una de las excomisarias
ejidales de origen tepehuano. Los pobladores permanecieron todo un
fin de semana en el monte, los camiones distribuidores ya no llegaban
hasta Jicamórachi por el riesgo que implicaba el camino. Los niños se
enfermaron, el clima era fresco, motivo que los obligó regresar a sus
hogares.
De los pobladores que permanecieron en el monte y no huyeron a otras
ciudades regresaron casi todos, menos la familia de Lidia, quien
permaneció en el monte con sus tías. Las casas que quemó el grupo
armado eran de su familia. También quemaron una carpintería,
propiedad del papa de Antonio Erives. A principios de abril llegó el
Ejército a instalarse en la primaria de Jicamórachi y fue así como
los habitantes pudieron regresar a sus viviendas.
Atemorizada, Lidia bajó del monte; no emitió palabra, sólo asentía
con la cabeza que su deseo era permanecer con su suegra y su familia
política. Se negó a abandonar aquel poblado en donde vivió un breve
matrimonio y convivió cara a cara con la violencia, aquella que llegó
a cobrar facturas de la práctica ilícita y naturalizada durante
décadas en la sierra Tarahumara.
En ese entonces, la joven evadía cualquier mirada de quien le
preguntaba detalles de aquellos eventos violentos. Le propusieron
salir del pueblo para ir con su familia, pero no aceptó, indicó que
su deseo era no dejar solas a su suegra y a sus tías.
Una semana después, salió del pueblo con su familia política. La
Policía Estatal Única les ofreció apoyo para salir del pueblo en
helicóptero. Llegaron a Sonora y semanas después, Lidia decidió ir
con su familia a una de las ciudades grandes del estado. Consiguió
trabajo en una tienda departamental, se mostraba serena y durante su
hora de comida, accedió a hablar sobre su vida en Uruachi.
Aceptó que requiere apoyo psicológico. Estaba decidida a retomar su
vida. Unas semanas después se casó y ahora espera un bebé.
Ola de balaceras
Después que los sicarios tomaron el pueblo de Jicamórachi en contra
de Erives, en marzo de 2011, éste y su gente emboscaron una caravana
de automóviles del grupo contrario, que transitaba por uno de los
caminos del municipio. El blanco era el líder del otro grupo, El
Vaquero, quien logró salvarse y huir en un vehículo blindado, refirió
un adolescente familiar de Lidia que, además, es parte del grupo de
Erives.
Como venganza, días después, gente al mando de El Vaquero tomó un
camión de pasajeros donde viajaba la hermana de Antonio Erives, una
regidora de Uruachi. Los pistoleros la secuestraron y comenzaron la
negociación: la plaza a cambio de la mujer.
El acuerdo fue encontrarse en un lugar cercano a Gosogachi.
La regidora fue llevada en un helicóptero y entregada a su hermano,
pero la habían torturado: le quemaron los pies. Luego de recibir a su
hermana, "se hizo la guerra"; ambos grupos se enfrentaron desde
diferentes cerros. Ganó el grupo de Toño.
En ese mismo lapso, otro poblado de Uruachi, Memelichi, también fue
tomado. Por correos electrónicos, los afectados indicaron a sus
conocidos que no dejaban salir a nadie del pueblo. Por temor, los
hombres corrieron a esconderse, pero mujeres y niños se quedaban en
el pueblo.
Después de la "guerra", el enemigo de Erives llegó con unas 70
personas armadas a la cabecera municipal para iniciar una balacera
durante cinco horas. Participaron, además del grupo de Toño, policías
mal armados y "tres o cuatro jóvenes" que se subieron a las azoteas a
disparar para que los rivales no supieran de dónde llegaban los balazos.
Disparaban desde las azoteas y mataron a varios. Los habitantes con
quienes se logró tener comunicación vía telefónica, aseguraban que
vieron cómo hirieron y mataron a varios, pero el mismo grupo se
llevaba los cadáveres, por lo que se desconoce la cifra exacta de los
muertos o heridos.
Las señoras relataban que veían a adolescentes ingresar por sus
patios con armas grandes, iban temerosos. Los mismos pobladores
aseguran que en la "guerra" que sostuvieron había varios jornaleros
de la pizca de la manzana, que fueron reclutados.
El presidente municipal, Aldo Campos Rascón, dio a conocer un día
después, que el pueblo estaba en shock; había muchas casas baleadas y
los vidrios de los vehículos estrellados. Aseguró que eran unas 10
personas las que presentaron lesiones. El alcalde solicitó presencia
permanente de las fuerzas armadas para intentar contener la violencia.
"Si no se pone alto a esta situación, la Sierra va convertirse en un
polvorín. Se está dando el caso de que la población se está armando o
quiere participar en una forma u otra en estos grupos y los que más
se van, son los jóvenes".
"Es poco de todo, la gente se cansa de vivir así, en el miedo, tratan
de tomar partido para un lado u otro. Estamos complicados y si no
tenemos cuidado se nos va a volver un polvorín en corto plazo. La
gente está inquieta, hay desconfianza", advirtió el alcalde.
Ante esa situación, de pronto, los habitantes de todo el municipio se
vieron protegidos con Toño Erives y su gente, quien suplió funciones
de las autoridades, desde la protección de sus vidas hasta traslados
a hospitales y apoyo para alimentarse.
A partir de aquella ocasión, finales de marzo y principios de abril
de 2011 se registraron ejecuciones aisladas y muy esporádicas, hasta
el fin de semana pasado, cuando el grupo contrario abatió a Antonio
Erives, quien se había convertido en el "Robin Hood" de los
habitantes de Uruachi. Ahora el temor, es cómo se acomodarán ambos
grupos y las decisiones que los líderes tomarán.
Note: more sad background news from the Sierra Tarahumara Computer
english
The drug war in the Sierra Tarahumara and the fall of a 'Robin Hood'
Patricia Mayorga
October 31, 2012 · 7 Comments
Feature EspecialAZMEX
Ghosts of the Sierra Tarahumara. Photo: Ricardo Ruiz
Ghosts of the Sierra Tarahumara.
Photo: Ricardo Ruiz
http://www.proceso.com.mx/?p=324055
Chihuahua, Chih. (Ap). - The execution of the head of the Sinaloa
cartel in the municipality of Uruachi, Antonio Erives Arduño, 39, on
Saturday, warned the villagers of the region. Since the end of March
last year, the leader of the criminal group in Uruachi positioned as
the "protector" of the people, by the lack of response and security
guarantees from authorities at all levels.
Toño Erives, as he was known, helped people with money, pantries,
defended who did not get involved with him, rescued teens were
recruited by another group of offenders, but also enlistaba or
"hooked" on his .
For a year, Antonio Erives managed to keep "calm" the town, but last
Saturday morning came his rival, a leader of the criminal group Line,
nicknamed El Vaquero, to fight the territory. The fighting kept the
inhabitants in their homes.
According to local authorities, there were several dead, although the
exact number is unknown. The confrontation lasted more than five hours.
In the Sierra Tarahumara it seems that there is permission to kill.
Authorities and blame society will endorse the same families,
communities that have cultivated and produced for decades, marijuana
and poppy, mostly without realizing that violence has reached entire
villages and manufactured thousands of victims who remain in anonymous.
The clashes between drug traffickers are historical, residents say
there have always been people armed, indigenous and mestizos have
always grown drugs. And this justification seems to extend to give
permission to kill anyone, regardless of the cause or how many there
are, because the Sierra of Chihuahua is the "no man's land".
The power of Toño Erives
The last week of March and early April 2011, the confrontation
between two criminal groups, the Sinaloa cartel and La Linea, took an
entire village to spend the night on the mountain. They slept that
week to weather and low temperatures. It was in Jicamórachi, Uruachi
Township.
On the morning of April 9, Lidia, niece Antonio Erives policy, down
from a mountain. She was accompanied by her mother, several aunts and
a group of children who had fled after unknown assailants burned five
of its properties.
Toño Erives, one of the uncles of her husband (who was murdered in
2009 at age 19) climbed important positions in La Linea, the Juarez
cartel arm. He soon rose to prominence in the organization, but the
Sinaloa cartel persuaded him to join them and began its power in the
region.
"He was a noble man says Lidia, gave protection, helping people, paid
them the trucks to go to hospitals. He is a man with handsome
features, nice people. "
In March 2011, reached El Vaquero, a leader of the line, and former
head of Erives to Jicamórachi. There was a queen coronation ball.
There was a dispute between the same group, local residents said that
one of them had a van loaded with drugs and then killed one of the men.
Two days later, a command with federal police clothing burned six
houses, among them that of the village doctor, and several vehicles.
The rebel group entered the village without specific target shooting.
The people, the elderly, children, entire families, ran to the
mountain. Jicamórachi is nestled between several mountains.
Some families amounted to flee and more than half of the 122 families
of the village did not return, said one of the ejido excomisarias
Tepehuano source. The settlers remained throughout a weekend in the
mountains, the truck dealers and not reaching Jicamórachi risk
involved by the way. The children became ill, the weather was cool,
reason forced to return home.
Of the people who remained in the bush and not flee to other cities
returned nearly everyone except the family of Lydia, who remained in
the bush with her aunts. The houses that burned the armed group were
family. They also burned a carpenter, owned by Antonio Erives potato.
In early April, the army came to settle in the primary Jicamórachi
and that's how the people could return to their homes.
Frightened, Lidia down from the mountain, not issued word, just
nodded his desire was to stay with her mother and her in-laws. He
refused to leave that town where he lived a short lived marriage and
face to face with violence, one that came to collect bills and
naturalized unlawful practice for decades in the Sierra Tarahumara.
At that time, she evaded any look who asked details of those violent
events. He proposed to go out of town with his family, but he
declined, said his desire was not left alone to her mother and her
aunts.
A week later, left the village with her in-laws. Single State Police
offered support to leave the village by helicopter. They arrived in
Sonora and weeks later, Lydia decided to go with his family to one of
the major cities of the state. He got a job at a department store, he
was calm and during your lunch hour, agreed to talk about his life in
Uruachi.
He accepted that requires counseling. She was determined to resume
his life. A few weeks later married and now expecting a baby.
Wave of shootings
After the gunmen took the town of Jicamórachi against Erives, in
March 2011, he and his men ambushed a motorcade of opposing group,
who was passing by one of the roads in the municipality. White was
the leader of another group, The Cowboy, who managed to escape and
flee in an armored vehicle, said a teenager Lydia's family that also
is part of the group Erives.
In retaliation, days later, people in charge of The Cowboy took a
passenger bus which was traveling Erives Antonio's sister, a
councilor of Uruachi. Gunmen kidnapped her and began the negotiation:
the place of women in return.
The agreement was found in a location near Gosogachi.
The councilor was taken by helicopter and delivered to her brother,
but she had been tortured: burned feet. After receiving his sister,
"became the war", both groups faced from different hills. Won the
tone group.
In that same period, another village of Uruachi, Memelichi, was also
taken. For emails, the victims told their acquaintances who would not
let anyone leave the village. Out of fear, the men ran to hide, but
women and children stayed in the village.
After the "war", the enemy of Erives arrived with about 70 people
armed to the county seat to begin a five-hour shootout. Also
participating group Toño, poorly armed policemen and "three or four
young men" who climbed to the roofs to shoot for rivals did not know
where the shots came.
Firing from rooftops and killed several. The people with whom it was
possible to have telephone communications, claimed that they saw
wounded and killed several, but the same group took the bodies, so it
is unknown the exact number of those killed or wounded.
The ladies saw teenagers related that enter through their yards with
big guns, were fearful. They say people in the "war" that had held
several laborers whit apple, they were recruited.
The mayor, Aldo Campos Rascon, released a day later, the people were
in shock, many houses had shot and glasses crashed vehicles. He said
they were about 10 people that had lesions. The mayor requested
permanent presence of the armed forces to try to contain the violence.
"If nothing is high with this situation, the Sierra will become a
tinderbox. It is giving the case the population is arming or want to
participate in one way or another in these groups and that more are,
are young people. "
"It's little bit of everything, people get tired of living like this,
in fear, trying to take a stand one way or another. We are
complicated and if we are not careful we will return in the short
term a tinderbox. People are concerned, there is mistrust, "said the
mayor.
In response, suddenly, all the inhabitants of municipality were
protected Erives Toño and his people, who was supplied authority
functions, from protecting their lives to support transfers to
hospitals and feeding.
Since that time, in late March and early April 2011 executions were
isolated and very sporadic, until last weekend, when the group struck
contrary to Antonio Erives, who had become the "Robin Hood" Uruachi
dwellers. Now the fear is how to accommodate both groups and leaders
take decisions.
automatically translated by Google
La narcoguerra en la Sierra Tarahumara y la caída de un 'Robin Hood'
Patricia Mayorga
31 de octubre de 2012 · 7 Comentarios
Reportaje EspecialAZMEX
Los fantasmas de la Sierra Tarahumara. Foto: Ricardo Ruíz
Los fantasmas de la Sierra Tarahumara.
Foto: Ricardo Ruíz
http://www.proceso.com.mx/?p=324055
CHIHUAHUA, Chih. (apro).- La ejecución del jefe del cártel de Sinaloa
en el municipio de Uruachi, Antonio Erives Arduño, de 39 años, el
sábado pasado, alertó a los habitantes de los poblados de la región.
Desde finales de marzo del año pasado, el líder del grupo delictivo
se posicionó en Uruachi como el "protector" de los ciudadanos, ante
la falta de respuesta y garantías de seguridad por las autoridades de
todos los niveles.
Toño Erives, como se le conocía, ayudaba a la gente con dinero, con
despensas; defendía a quien no se metía con él, rescataba a
adolescentes que eran reclutados por otro grupo para delinquir, pero
también los enlistaba o "enganchaba" en el suyo.
Durante un año, Antonio Erives logró mantener en "calma" el
municipio, pero el sábado pasado por la mañana llegó su rival, uno de
los líderes del grupo criminal La Línea, apodado El Vaquero, para
pelear el territorio. El enfrentamiento mantuvo a los habitantes en
sus viviendas.
De acuerdo con las autoridades locales, fueron varios los muertos,
aunque se desconoce el número preciso. El enfrentamiento duró más de
cinco horas.
En la Sierra Tarahumara tal parece que hay permiso para matar.
Autoridades y sociedad le endosan la culpa a las mismas familias, a
las comunidades que han sembrado y producido, durante décadas,
mariguana y amapola, principalmente, sin darse cuenta de que la
violencia ha alcanzado a poblados enteros y fabricado miles de
víctimas que permanecen en el anonimato.
Los enfrentamientos entre narcotraficantes son históricos, los
pobladores dicen que siempre ha habido gente armada; indígenas y
mestizos siempre han sembrado droga. Y esa justificación parece
extenderse para dar permiso de matar a quien sea, sin importar la
causa ni cuántos sean, porque la Sierra de Chihuahua es la "tierra de
nadie".
El poderío de Toño Erives
La última semana de marzo y principios de abril de 2011, el
enfrentamiento entre los dos grupos delictivos, el cártel de Sinaloa
y La Línea, llevó a un pueblo entero a pasar las noches en el monte.
Durmieron esa semana a la intemperie y con bajas temperaturas. Fue en
Jicamórachi, del municipio de Uruachi.
La mañana del 9 de abril, Lidia, sobrina política de Antonio Erives,
bajó de una de las montañas. La acompañaban su suegra, varias tías y
un grupo de niños, quienes habían huido después de que unos
desconocidos quemaron cinco de sus propiedades.
Toño Erives, uno de los tíos de su esposo (quien fue asesinado en
2009 a los 19 años) escaló importantes posiciones en La Línea, brazo
del cártel de Juárez. Pronto comenzó a destacar en esa organización;
sin embargo, el cártel de Sinaloa lo convenció para que se uniera a
ellos y comenzó su poderío en la región.
"Era un hombre noble –dice Lidia–, daba protección, ayudaba a la
gente, les prestaba las trocas para ir a los hospitales. Es un hombre
con facciones atractivas, buena gente."
En marzo de 2011, llegó El Vaquero, uno de los líderes de La Línea, y
exjefe de Erives a Jicamórachi. Había un baile de coronación de
reina. Hubo un pleito entre el mismo grupo, los vecinos del lugar
indicaron que uno de ellos llevaba una camioneta cargada con droga y
ahí mataron a uno de los hombres.
Dos días después, un comando con vestimenta de policías federales
quemó seis casas, entre éstas la del médico del pueblo, y varios
vehículos. El grupo rebelde ingresó al pueblo disparando sin blanco
específico. La gente, ancianos, niños, familias completas, corrieron
al monte. Jicamórachi está enclavado entre varias montañas.
Algunas familias alcanzaron a huir y más de la mitad de las 122
familias del poblado ya no regresó, indicó una de las excomisarias
ejidales de origen tepehuano. Los pobladores permanecieron todo un
fin de semana en el monte, los camiones distribuidores ya no llegaban
hasta Jicamórachi por el riesgo que implicaba el camino. Los niños se
enfermaron, el clima era fresco, motivo que los obligó regresar a sus
hogares.
De los pobladores que permanecieron en el monte y no huyeron a otras
ciudades regresaron casi todos, menos la familia de Lidia, quien
permaneció en el monte con sus tías. Las casas que quemó el grupo
armado eran de su familia. También quemaron una carpintería,
propiedad del papa de Antonio Erives. A principios de abril llegó el
Ejército a instalarse en la primaria de Jicamórachi y fue así como
los habitantes pudieron regresar a sus viviendas.
Atemorizada, Lidia bajó del monte; no emitió palabra, sólo asentía
con la cabeza que su deseo era permanecer con su suegra y su familia
política. Se negó a abandonar aquel poblado en donde vivió un breve
matrimonio y convivió cara a cara con la violencia, aquella que llegó
a cobrar facturas de la práctica ilícita y naturalizada durante
décadas en la sierra Tarahumara.
En ese entonces, la joven evadía cualquier mirada de quien le
preguntaba detalles de aquellos eventos violentos. Le propusieron
salir del pueblo para ir con su familia, pero no aceptó, indicó que
su deseo era no dejar solas a su suegra y a sus tías.
Una semana después, salió del pueblo con su familia política. La
Policía Estatal Única les ofreció apoyo para salir del pueblo en
helicóptero. Llegaron a Sonora y semanas después, Lidia decidió ir
con su familia a una de las ciudades grandes del estado. Consiguió
trabajo en una tienda departamental, se mostraba serena y durante su
hora de comida, accedió a hablar sobre su vida en Uruachi.
Aceptó que requiere apoyo psicológico. Estaba decidida a retomar su
vida. Unas semanas después se casó y ahora espera un bebé.
Ola de balaceras
Después que los sicarios tomaron el pueblo de Jicamórachi en contra
de Erives, en marzo de 2011, éste y su gente emboscaron una caravana
de automóviles del grupo contrario, que transitaba por uno de los
caminos del municipio. El blanco era el líder del otro grupo, El
Vaquero, quien logró salvarse y huir en un vehículo blindado, refirió
un adolescente familiar de Lidia que, además, es parte del grupo de
Erives.
Como venganza, días después, gente al mando de El Vaquero tomó un
camión de pasajeros donde viajaba la hermana de Antonio Erives, una
regidora de Uruachi. Los pistoleros la secuestraron y comenzaron la
negociación: la plaza a cambio de la mujer.
El acuerdo fue encontrarse en un lugar cercano a Gosogachi.
La regidora fue llevada en un helicóptero y entregada a su hermano,
pero la habían torturado: le quemaron los pies. Luego de recibir a su
hermana, "se hizo la guerra"; ambos grupos se enfrentaron desde
diferentes cerros. Ganó el grupo de Toño.
En ese mismo lapso, otro poblado de Uruachi, Memelichi, también fue
tomado. Por correos electrónicos, los afectados indicaron a sus
conocidos que no dejaban salir a nadie del pueblo. Por temor, los
hombres corrieron a esconderse, pero mujeres y niños se quedaban en
el pueblo.
Después de la "guerra", el enemigo de Erives llegó con unas 70
personas armadas a la cabecera municipal para iniciar una balacera
durante cinco horas. Participaron, además del grupo de Toño, policías
mal armados y "tres o cuatro jóvenes" que se subieron a las azoteas a
disparar para que los rivales no supieran de dónde llegaban los balazos.
Disparaban desde las azoteas y mataron a varios. Los habitantes con
quienes se logró tener comunicación vía telefónica, aseguraban que
vieron cómo hirieron y mataron a varios, pero el mismo grupo se
llevaba los cadáveres, por lo que se desconoce la cifra exacta de los
muertos o heridos.
Las señoras relataban que veían a adolescentes ingresar por sus
patios con armas grandes, iban temerosos. Los mismos pobladores
aseguran que en la "guerra" que sostuvieron había varios jornaleros
de la pizca de la manzana, que fueron reclutados.
El presidente municipal, Aldo Campos Rascón, dio a conocer un día
después, que el pueblo estaba en shock; había muchas casas baleadas y
los vidrios de los vehículos estrellados. Aseguró que eran unas 10
personas las que presentaron lesiones. El alcalde solicitó presencia
permanente de las fuerzas armadas para intentar contener la violencia.
"Si no se pone alto a esta situación, la Sierra va convertirse en un
polvorín. Se está dando el caso de que la población se está armando o
quiere participar en una forma u otra en estos grupos y los que más
se van, son los jóvenes".
"Es poco de todo, la gente se cansa de vivir así, en el miedo, tratan
de tomar partido para un lado u otro. Estamos complicados y si no
tenemos cuidado se nos va a volver un polvorín en corto plazo. La
gente está inquieta, hay desconfianza", advirtió el alcalde.
Ante esa situación, de pronto, los habitantes de todo el municipio se
vieron protegidos con Toño Erives y su gente, quien suplió funciones
de las autoridades, desde la protección de sus vidas hasta traslados
a hospitales y apoyo para alimentarse.
A partir de aquella ocasión, finales de marzo y principios de abril
de 2011 se registraron ejecuciones aisladas y muy esporádicas, hasta
el fin de semana pasado, cuando el grupo contrario abatió a Antonio
Erives, quien se había convertido en el "Robin Hood" de los
habitantes de Uruachi. Ahora el temor, es cómo se acomodarán ambos
grupos y las decisiones que los líderes tomarán.
AZMEX SPECIAL 31-10-12
AZMEX SPECIAL 31 OCT 2012
Comment: Warning: contains hate speech. Been debating whether to
send this one out. This stuff is affecting the security of the
border states and the U.S. as a whole. A sad sample of the hate,
lies and sickness. Provided to us by the az daily star It is all
about illegal immigration, not legal immigration. It would seem that
anyone opposed to illegal immigration is all of the below. Even
those from our family who immigrated here legally. Including two
"kid sisters", born and raised in Mexico, Mexican citizens. We have
to do it by the book, but not others? . Especially irritating for
your correspondents wife, also a legal immigrant. So those who
immigrate legally, learn English, become productive members of
society are really anti immigrant? Anti Latino? This stuff getting
very tiresome. People like neto ( little ernesto) are doing a lot
of harm to this country.
Neto's Tucson: Latinos must engage to counter AZ's sorry image
http://azstarnet.com/news/local/neto-s-tucson-latinos-must-engage-to-
counter-az-s/article_cb7f2f24-bb6e-558d-a51d-f031e570a4b0.html
October 21, 2012 12:00 am • Ernesto Portillo Jr. Arizona Daily Star
(97) Comments
A few days ago, my fiancé and I were driving to Los Angeles when, in
San Diego, we heard a radio ad in Spanish that almost made me swerve
off the road.
It was a paid political advertisement by a union that supports the
Democratic candidate for mayor of San Diego. What caught my interest
was that the Republican candidate was tarred and feathered as an ally
of Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer and Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.
The narrator did not mince words.
Think about it. If you want to defeat a politician and you're talking
to a Hispanic audience, just associate the adversary with our state
politicians, who have created controversies that have reached across
the country.
In other words, Brewer, who signed SB 1070, which has largely been
held unconstitutional, and Arpaio, who has led raids in Latino
neighborhoods in and around Phoenix, are the equivalent of political
chupacabras for many Latinos.
This is where we have arrived in Arizona. We are not known for
forward-thinking politicians and policies. Instead, we have media-
hungry characters and divisive initiatives. This is our state's
reputation, not only in California and the rest of the country, but
abroad.
The world knows Arizona for its anti-immigrant and anti-Latino policy
fomented in recent years by not only by Brewer and Arpaio but by
former state Sen. Russell Pearce of Mesa, who was recalled and lost
his bid to return to public office.
But how did we get to this point where the nation and the world look
at us as a bitter and angry state looking for ways to criticize
immigrants and Latinos?
Even before Brewer and SB 1070, Arizona voters in 2000 passed a law
that eliminated bilingual education in public schools. More recently,
the state banned the Mexican-American Studies program in the Tucson
Unified School District, under the accusation that its ethnically
diverse students from Tucson, Cholla, Pueblo and Rincon high schools
were learning how to hate their country.
The cumulative effect of these laws has created an environment of
blame and rejection. Latinos, whether we are citizens, legal
residents or undocumented, are the source of the state's ills.
Unemployment? Crime? Drug trafficking? Even littering, Latinos are
mostly responsible for these and other problems in Arizona, so claim
the accusers.
More than absurd, it is insulting.
Even many Latinos have bought into this toxic myth created by
xenophobic leaders and anti-Latino activists. When voters approve
laws, such as banning bilingual education, with support from Latino
voters, politicians excuse themselves by saying, "Well, if Latinos
support it then I'm not racist."
There are many reasons why we have reached this point. There are a
number of analyses. But one good explanation lies at the feet of
Latinos.
Not enough Latinos are involved in the political process.
In two previous columns, I wrote about the low number of Latinos who
register to vote and who vote. I also wrote of the efforts of
organizations and activists that encourage more Latinos to get
involved in politics.
As residents of Tucson and Southern Arizona, as citizens of this
country, Latinos need to be politically engaged. And not only in
electoral politics, but in schools and in neighborhoods.
With more Latino political and civic participation comes more
effective political representation.
That might not solve all of our state's and local problems, but fewer
politicians would rush to blame Latinos.
Care to get involved?
The Latino Policy Coalition, a nonpartisan organization that
encourages Latinos to vote, needs volunteers for its phone bank.
Volunteers are needed for two- or three-hour blocks:
Monday - Thursday, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; and Sunday,
2-7 p.m.
Call 222-8683 to volunteer.
Ernesto "Neto" Portillo Jr. is editor of La Estrella de Tucsón. He
can be reached at (520) 573-4187 or at netopjr@azstarnet.com
Comment: Warning: contains hate speech. Been debating whether to
send this one out. This stuff is affecting the security of the
border states and the U.S. as a whole. A sad sample of the hate,
lies and sickness. Provided to us by the az daily star It is all
about illegal immigration, not legal immigration. It would seem that
anyone opposed to illegal immigration is all of the below. Even
those from our family who immigrated here legally. Including two
"kid sisters", born and raised in Mexico, Mexican citizens. We have
to do it by the book, but not others? . Especially irritating for
your correspondents wife, also a legal immigrant. So those who
immigrate legally, learn English, become productive members of
society are really anti immigrant? Anti Latino? This stuff getting
very tiresome. People like neto ( little ernesto) are doing a lot
of harm to this country.
Neto's Tucson: Latinos must engage to counter AZ's sorry image
http://azstarnet.com/news/local/neto-s-tucson-latinos-must-engage-to-
counter-az-s/article_cb7f2f24-bb6e-558d-a51d-f031e570a4b0.html
October 21, 2012 12:00 am • Ernesto Portillo Jr. Arizona Daily Star
(97) Comments
A few days ago, my fiancé and I were driving to Los Angeles when, in
San Diego, we heard a radio ad in Spanish that almost made me swerve
off the road.
It was a paid political advertisement by a union that supports the
Democratic candidate for mayor of San Diego. What caught my interest
was that the Republican candidate was tarred and feathered as an ally
of Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer and Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.
The narrator did not mince words.
Think about it. If you want to defeat a politician and you're talking
to a Hispanic audience, just associate the adversary with our state
politicians, who have created controversies that have reached across
the country.
In other words, Brewer, who signed SB 1070, which has largely been
held unconstitutional, and Arpaio, who has led raids in Latino
neighborhoods in and around Phoenix, are the equivalent of political
chupacabras for many Latinos.
This is where we have arrived in Arizona. We are not known for
forward-thinking politicians and policies. Instead, we have media-
hungry characters and divisive initiatives. This is our state's
reputation, not only in California and the rest of the country, but
abroad.
The world knows Arizona for its anti-immigrant and anti-Latino policy
fomented in recent years by not only by Brewer and Arpaio but by
former state Sen. Russell Pearce of Mesa, who was recalled and lost
his bid to return to public office.
But how did we get to this point where the nation and the world look
at us as a bitter and angry state looking for ways to criticize
immigrants and Latinos?
Even before Brewer and SB 1070, Arizona voters in 2000 passed a law
that eliminated bilingual education in public schools. More recently,
the state banned the Mexican-American Studies program in the Tucson
Unified School District, under the accusation that its ethnically
diverse students from Tucson, Cholla, Pueblo and Rincon high schools
were learning how to hate their country.
The cumulative effect of these laws has created an environment of
blame and rejection. Latinos, whether we are citizens, legal
residents or undocumented, are the source of the state's ills.
Unemployment? Crime? Drug trafficking? Even littering, Latinos are
mostly responsible for these and other problems in Arizona, so claim
the accusers.
More than absurd, it is insulting.
Even many Latinos have bought into this toxic myth created by
xenophobic leaders and anti-Latino activists. When voters approve
laws, such as banning bilingual education, with support from Latino
voters, politicians excuse themselves by saying, "Well, if Latinos
support it then I'm not racist."
There are many reasons why we have reached this point. There are a
number of analyses. But one good explanation lies at the feet of
Latinos.
Not enough Latinos are involved in the political process.
In two previous columns, I wrote about the low number of Latinos who
register to vote and who vote. I also wrote of the efforts of
organizations and activists that encourage more Latinos to get
involved in politics.
As residents of Tucson and Southern Arizona, as citizens of this
country, Latinos need to be politically engaged. And not only in
electoral politics, but in schools and in neighborhoods.
With more Latino political and civic participation comes more
effective political representation.
That might not solve all of our state's and local problems, but fewer
politicians would rush to blame Latinos.
Care to get involved?
The Latino Policy Coalition, a nonpartisan organization that
encourages Latinos to vote, needs volunteers for its phone bank.
Volunteers are needed for two- or three-hour blocks:
Monday - Thursday, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; and Sunday,
2-7 p.m.
Call 222-8683 to volunteer.
Ernesto "Neto" Portillo Jr. is editor of La Estrella de Tucsón. He
can be reached at (520) 573-4187 or at netopjr@azstarnet.com
Friday, November 9, 2012
AZMEX UPDATE 9-11-12
AZMEX UPDATE 9 NOV 2012
Inbox Warning: There is a backlog of AZMEX items of varying interest. Prepare your inboxes.
Note: Some may remember this case.
Mexican judge: Trucker can go free after paying fine
By Lorena Figueroa \ El Paso Times
Posted: 11/09/2012 02:18:42 AM MST
http://www.elpasotimes.com/news/ci_21961407/mexican-judge-trucker-can-go-free-after-paying
JUAREZ -- A U.S. truck driver who entered Juárez with a truckload of ammunition in April is expected to be released soon.
Jabin Akeem Bogan, 27, of Dallas, is expected to be released from a prison in Veracruz after he pays a fine of about $1,500, the federal judge who oversees the case said Thursday.
"After that happens, he will be immediately released," said Judge Carlos Miguel GarcÃa Treviño of the Fifth District Court.
Bogan said he made a wrong turn and did not mean to go into Mexico with the ammunition.
Bogan's girlfriend, Tania Davis, seemed surprised when asked if she was aware that Bogan could be released from prison soon.
"I do not have any comment. But the fine is $5,000, not $1,500," she said over the telephone from Dallas.
GarcÃa Treviño said the fine is part of Bogan's sentence, which also includes three years of supervised release. It is unclear how Bogan will be supervised in México.
GarcÃa Treviño said that he sentenced Bogan on Sept. 12 on a charge of possession of ammunition.
Although the charge has a punishment of up to six years in prison, the judge sentenced Bogan to half that time, which made it possible under Mexican law to finish his sentence outside prison with the payment of a fine.
The charge of possession of ammunition resulted after a federal magistrate court in August threw out a harsher charge of trafficking, which is punishable by up to 30 years in prison with no possibility of supervised release.
Federal prosecutors tried to appeal Bogan's sentence, but the same court upheld it on Oct. 30, GarcÃa Treviño said.
Officials from the Attorney General's office in Juárez could not be reached for comment.
"Now, the future of Bogan is up to his lawyers," GarcÃa Treviño said.
Bogan's lawyer in México, Emilio de la Rosa, said that as of Thursday, he had not been officially informed of the magistrate court's ruling. He declined to comment further.
Bogan has been in a maximum security federal prison in Villa Aldama, Veracruz, about 200 miles east Mexico City. He was sent to that prison a couple of days after his arrest on April 17.
Mexican authorities arrested Bogan after he crossed the Bridge of the Americas with 268,000 rounds of ammunition -- mostly .308 and .223 caliber rounds -- inside the container of the 18-wheeler he was driving.
Bogan's family and lawyers have said that the trucker made a mistake when he took a wrong exit on Loop 375 toward the international bridge because he was lost.
They have said that Bogan tried to return to the U.S. but that vehicle traffic at the bridge prevented him from doing so without having to cross to the Mexican Customs' inspection area in Juárez.
Bogan's employer, Demco Trans Inc. in Dallas, has said that the ammunition was a legitimate cargo that the trucker was supposed to deliver to a wholesaler in Phoenix the day after he was arrested.
Lorena Figueroa may be reached at lfigueroa@elpasotimes.com; 546-6129.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
AZMEX UPDATE 7-11-12
AZMEX UPDATE 7 NOV 2012
Border agent killed in Arizona was shot in head
By Associated Press
Originally published: Nov 7, 2012 - 2:15 pm
http://www.ktar.com/22/1587109/Border-agent-killed-in-Arizona-was-
shot-in-head
TUCSON, Ariz. -- An autopsy report concludes that a U.S. Border
Patrol agent who was killed by friendly fire near the Arizona-Mexico
border had died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Medical examiners said in a report released Wednesday that a bullet
slug and a bullet fragment were recovered from the body of 30-year-
old Agent Nicholas Ivie.
Investigators said Ivie and two other agents had responded to a
tripped underground sensor that's designed to detect smugglers and
illegal immigrants on Oct. 2 and had approached the location from
opposite directions before opening fire on each other.
The shooting occurred in the early morning hours in an area known for
drug smuggling.
The autopsy report doesn't say which agent fired the fatal shot.
Border agent killed in Arizona was shot in head
By Associated Press
Originally published: Nov 7, 2012 - 2:15 pm
http://www.ktar.com/22/1587109/Border-agent-killed-in-Arizona-was-
shot-in-head
TUCSON, Ariz. -- An autopsy report concludes that a U.S. Border
Patrol agent who was killed by friendly fire near the Arizona-Mexico
border had died from a gunshot wound to the head.
Medical examiners said in a report released Wednesday that a bullet
slug and a bullet fragment were recovered from the body of 30-year-
old Agent Nicholas Ivie.
Investigators said Ivie and two other agents had responded to a
tripped underground sensor that's designed to detect smugglers and
illegal immigrants on Oct. 2 and had approached the location from
opposite directions before opening fire on each other.
The shooting occurred in the early morning hours in an area known for
drug smuggling.
The autopsy report doesn't say which agent fired the fatal shot.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
AZMEX UPDATE 1-11-12
AZMEX UDPATE 1 NOV 2012
Note: Incident location approx 80 miles north of the US/Mexico
Border - 44 miles due south of downtown Phoenix, AZ. BTW, it
would appear the the rip crews have info on times and routes of drug
runners. Other similar incidents never get reported.
Pinal County officials investigating two desert shootings
By Marissa Scott
The Republic | azcentral.com
Thu Nov 1, 2012 11:48 AM
http://www.azcentral.com/community/pinal/articles/20121101pinal-
county-officials-armed-group-attacks-men-marijuana-abrk.html
The Pinal County Sheriff's Office is investigating two desert
shootings that occurred a day a part.
The most recent shooting occurred south of Powerline and Smith
roads in Vekol Valley.
About 6:50 p.m. Wednesday, Pinal County officers received a call from
an unidentified male south of Interstate 8 saying he had been shot,
Pinal County Sheriff's Office spokesman Tim Gaffney said.
The victim and another male were transported to a hospital. The first
victim suffered a gunshot wound to his buttocks, Gaffney said.
The second victim told officials he and the other victim had been a
part of an eight-man backpacking group carrying marijuana across the
United States-Mexico border, Gaffney said.
They walked to Interstate 8 where they were confronted by a group of
five men associated with a group known as a rip crew. The term "rip
crew" is a name given to an organized group that seeks to rip off
drug mules or men carrying drugs illegally across the border.
The rip crew ordered the group to drop the backpacks of marijuana. As
the eight men fled from the area, one of the rip crew members opened
fire at the group. Four of the rip crew members were armed with
rifles and one carried a handgun, Gaffney said.
After a search of the area, officers found two other Hispanic men.
One man told officers he was one of the backpackers carrying
marijuana when approached by the armed men.
Three of the men, including the one shot in the buttocks, are in the
United States illegally and were turned over to the United States
Border Patrol, officials said.
Pinal County officials are also investigating a Tuesday shooting.
Officials received a call about 8 a.m. Tuesday from a resident who
found an injured man alongside a road after a possible shooting near
"La Osa Ranch," about seven miles west of Red Rock community, Gaffney
said.
The 42-year-old victim admitted to deputies he crossed the border on
foot illegally about 10 days ago with two other men, Gaffney said.
The three men were walking on a trail about 1 a.m. Tuesday, when they
were confronted by three other men hiding in bushes. The suspects
were wearing camouflage clothing, black masks and were armed with
semi-automatic handguns, according to authorities.
The suspects, who spoke in Spanish, demanded money. The victims
handed the men all the money they carried.
When the three suspects did not receive any more cash, one of the
suspects whipped a gun into the victim's face. The man fought back,
but another suspect shot him in the right leg, authorities said.
The victim fell to the ground, and the three suspects ran to a car
parked about 200 yards away.
The two men with the victim fled to a nearby road where the victim
was left roadside and a driver found him. The two other men fled to
avoid being arrested.
The man was transported to a hospital for the injuries related to the
shooting. He suffered several fractures to his face from the pistol-
whipping.
One of the victim's friends was located. Both men were handed over to
the U.S. Border Patrol for being in the United States illegally.
Note: earlier story
Pinal County officials: Armed group attacks men with marijuana
By Marissa Scott The Republic | azcentral.com
Thu Nov 1, 2012 9:46 AM
http://www.azcentral.com/community/pinal/articles/20121101pinal-
county-officials-armed-group-attacks-men-marijuana-abrk.html
The Pinal County Sheriff's Office is investigating a Wednesday night
shooting south of Powerline and Smith roads.
About 6:50 p.m., Pinal County officers received a call from an
unidentified male south of Interstate 8 saying he had been shot, said
Tim Gaffney, Pinal County sheriff's spokesman.
The victim and another male were transported to a hospital. The first
victim suffered a gunshot wound to his buttocks, Gaffney said.
The second victim told officials he and the other victim had been a
part of an eight-man backpacking group carrying marijuana across the
United States-Mexico border, Gaffney said.
They walked to Interstate 8 where they were confronted by a group of
five men associated with a group known as a rip crew. The term "rip
crew" is a name given to an organized group that seeks to rip off
drug mules or men carrying drugs illegally across the border.
The rip crew ordered the group to drop the backpacks of marijuana. As
the eight men fled from the area, one of the rip crew members opened
fire at the group. Four of the rip crew members were armed with
rifles and one carried a handgun, Gaffney said.
After a search of the area, officers found two other Hispanic men.
One man told officers he was one of the backpackers carrying
marijuana when approached by the armed men.
Three of the men, including the one shot in the buttocks, are in the
United States illegally and were turned over to the United States
Border Patrol, officials said.
The Pinal County Office is investigating the shooting.
Note: the smugglers have a long history of no regard for innocent
lives.
Texas trooper in chopper shooting returns to work
Posted: Thursday, November 1, 2012 5:24 pm | Updated: 7:01 pm, Thu
Nov 1, 2012.
Associated Press
http://www.themonitor.com/news/state/article_b8368dd5-5c9f-52f7-834f-
ae3afe06f73e.html
The Texas trooper who fired on a fleeing pickup truck from helicopter
near the U.S.-Mexico border, killing two illegal immigrants who were
hiding in the bed, has returned to work but been reassigned to
administrative duties pending the outcome of an investigation, the
state Department of Public Safety said Thursday.
The announcement came less than an hour after the American Civil
Liberties Union and local civil rights organizations gathered near
the site of the Oct. 25 shooting to demand an investigation by an
independent body outside the agency. Currently, the Texas Rangers, an
elite force within DPS, is leading the investigation.
DPS identified the trooper involved as tactical flight officer Miguel
Avila. He was placed on administrative leave immediately following
the incident but has since returned to administrative work.
The Oct. 25 chase started after Texas Parks and Wildlife game wardens
spotted the red pickup near La Joya, near the U.S.-Mexico border
about 250 miles south of San Antonio. The DPS helicopter joined the
high-speed pursuit of what it believed was a "typical covered drug
load," and Avila fired from the air to disable the vehicle.
The truck crashed into a ditch. Six illegal immigrants from
Guatemala, not drugs, were hidden under a blanket in the bed. Two
died, and a third was injured. In total, there had been 11 people in
the truck.
The agency's statement Thursday reiterated earlier comments that
troopers believed they were pursuing a covered a drug load when shots
were fired. They believed the driver's recklessness was a threat to
the public and to elementary and middle schools less than three miles
away.
"Although it is very tragic that two lives were lost, had the vehicle
continued recklessly speeding through the school zone, any number of
innocent bystanders or young lives could have been lost or suffered
serious bodily injury," DPS director Steve McCraw said.
However, a map of the chase route provided by DPS showed four law
enforcement vehicles between where the truck was shot and the schools.
In a letter delivered to McCraw on Thursday, the ACLU suggested the
use of deadly force was "illegal and unconstitutional" and asked for
an investigation by an agency not tied to DPS.
Several probes seem possible. Guatemala's consul in Texas has
expressed skepticism that the troopers wouldn't have been able to see
people in the truck and asked for an investigation. Hidalgo County
District Attorney Rene Guerra announced Wednesday after meeting with
Texas Rangers that the case would be taken to a grand jury.
Two Texas legislators who sit on a House committee with oversight
over DPS have asked its chairman to immediately convene a hearing on
the matter. Rep. Lon Burnam, D-Fort Worth, and Rep. Armando Walle, D-
Houston, said they want the committee to review the trooper's conduct
and the agency's policy on firing at moving vehicles.
"The fact of the matter is neither human trafficking nor drug
trafficking deserves the death penalty without a trial," Burnam said.
"The two people who were killed are guilty of a misdemeanor."
Publicada: 01/11/2012 17:09 Por: Redacción ElImparcial
Encuentran "narcotúnel" en Nogales
Un túnel hacia Estados Unidos que era utilizado para actividades
ilícitas fue localizado el pasado 30 de octubre por elementos de la
45 zona Militar, en un sector próximo a la línea fronteriza, de la
colonia Fundo Legal.
http://www.elimparcial.com/EdicionEnLinea/Notas/Policiaca/
01112012/635962.aspx
NOGALES, Sonora(PH)
Un túnel hacia Estados Unidos que era utilizado para actividades
ilícitas fue localizado el pasado 30 de octubre por elementos de la
45 zona Militar, en un sector próximo a la línea fronteriza, de la
colonia Fundo Legal.
De acuerdo al comunicado del Ejercito Mexicano, el pasadizo fue
hallado en el callejón Rodolfo Siordia y calle Campillo e
Internacional y era de unos 25 metros de largo aproximadamente.
La entrada al túnel estaba en el interior de un inmueble, era de 2.5
metros de profundidad, reforzada con barrotes de contención y había
una polea que era utilizada para descender hacia el interior del
pasadizo.
Las fuerzas castrenses mantuvieron vigilancia en el lugar donde se
hizo el hallazgo del túnel y solo permitieron el acceso a las
personas residentes de ese sector como medida de seguridad.
Según el informe militar, el inmueble asegurado, quedó a disposición
del agente del Ministerio Público Federal, encargado de realizar la
averiguación previa, para el deslinde de responsabilidades.
Note: Incident location approx 80 miles north of the US/Mexico
Border - 44 miles due south of downtown Phoenix, AZ. BTW, it
would appear the the rip crews have info on times and routes of drug
runners. Other similar incidents never get reported.
Pinal County officials investigating two desert shootings
By Marissa Scott
The Republic | azcentral.com
Thu Nov 1, 2012 11:48 AM
http://www.azcentral.com/community/pinal/articles/20121101pinal-
county-officials-armed-group-attacks-men-marijuana-abrk.html
The Pinal County Sheriff's Office is investigating two desert
shootings that occurred a day a part.
The most recent shooting occurred south of Powerline and Smith
roads in Vekol Valley.
About 6:50 p.m. Wednesday, Pinal County officers received a call from
an unidentified male south of Interstate 8 saying he had been shot,
Pinal County Sheriff's Office spokesman Tim Gaffney said.
The victim and another male were transported to a hospital. The first
victim suffered a gunshot wound to his buttocks, Gaffney said.
The second victim told officials he and the other victim had been a
part of an eight-man backpacking group carrying marijuana across the
United States-Mexico border, Gaffney said.
They walked to Interstate 8 where they were confronted by a group of
five men associated with a group known as a rip crew. The term "rip
crew" is a name given to an organized group that seeks to rip off
drug mules or men carrying drugs illegally across the border.
The rip crew ordered the group to drop the backpacks of marijuana. As
the eight men fled from the area, one of the rip crew members opened
fire at the group. Four of the rip crew members were armed with
rifles and one carried a handgun, Gaffney said.
After a search of the area, officers found two other Hispanic men.
One man told officers he was one of the backpackers carrying
marijuana when approached by the armed men.
Three of the men, including the one shot in the buttocks, are in the
United States illegally and were turned over to the United States
Border Patrol, officials said.
Pinal County officials are also investigating a Tuesday shooting.
Officials received a call about 8 a.m. Tuesday from a resident who
found an injured man alongside a road after a possible shooting near
"La Osa Ranch," about seven miles west of Red Rock community, Gaffney
said.
The 42-year-old victim admitted to deputies he crossed the border on
foot illegally about 10 days ago with two other men, Gaffney said.
The three men were walking on a trail about 1 a.m. Tuesday, when they
were confronted by three other men hiding in bushes. The suspects
were wearing camouflage clothing, black masks and were armed with
semi-automatic handguns, according to authorities.
The suspects, who spoke in Spanish, demanded money. The victims
handed the men all the money they carried.
When the three suspects did not receive any more cash, one of the
suspects whipped a gun into the victim's face. The man fought back,
but another suspect shot him in the right leg, authorities said.
The victim fell to the ground, and the three suspects ran to a car
parked about 200 yards away.
The two men with the victim fled to a nearby road where the victim
was left roadside and a driver found him. The two other men fled to
avoid being arrested.
The man was transported to a hospital for the injuries related to the
shooting. He suffered several fractures to his face from the pistol-
whipping.
One of the victim's friends was located. Both men were handed over to
the U.S. Border Patrol for being in the United States illegally.
Note: earlier story
Pinal County officials: Armed group attacks men with marijuana
By Marissa Scott The Republic | azcentral.com
Thu Nov 1, 2012 9:46 AM
http://www.azcentral.com/community/pinal/articles/20121101pinal-
county-officials-armed-group-attacks-men-marijuana-abrk.html
The Pinal County Sheriff's Office is investigating a Wednesday night
shooting south of Powerline and Smith roads.
About 6:50 p.m., Pinal County officers received a call from an
unidentified male south of Interstate 8 saying he had been shot, said
Tim Gaffney, Pinal County sheriff's spokesman.
The victim and another male were transported to a hospital. The first
victim suffered a gunshot wound to his buttocks, Gaffney said.
The second victim told officials he and the other victim had been a
part of an eight-man backpacking group carrying marijuana across the
United States-Mexico border, Gaffney said.
They walked to Interstate 8 where they were confronted by a group of
five men associated with a group known as a rip crew. The term "rip
crew" is a name given to an organized group that seeks to rip off
drug mules or men carrying drugs illegally across the border.
The rip crew ordered the group to drop the backpacks of marijuana. As
the eight men fled from the area, one of the rip crew members opened
fire at the group. Four of the rip crew members were armed with
rifles and one carried a handgun, Gaffney said.
After a search of the area, officers found two other Hispanic men.
One man told officers he was one of the backpackers carrying
marijuana when approached by the armed men.
Three of the men, including the one shot in the buttocks, are in the
United States illegally and were turned over to the United States
Border Patrol, officials said.
The Pinal County Office is investigating the shooting.
Note: the smugglers have a long history of no regard for innocent
lives.
Texas trooper in chopper shooting returns to work
Posted: Thursday, November 1, 2012 5:24 pm | Updated: 7:01 pm, Thu
Nov 1, 2012.
Associated Press
http://www.themonitor.com/news/state/article_b8368dd5-5c9f-52f7-834f-
ae3afe06f73e.html
The Texas trooper who fired on a fleeing pickup truck from helicopter
near the U.S.-Mexico border, killing two illegal immigrants who were
hiding in the bed, has returned to work but been reassigned to
administrative duties pending the outcome of an investigation, the
state Department of Public Safety said Thursday.
The announcement came less than an hour after the American Civil
Liberties Union and local civil rights organizations gathered near
the site of the Oct. 25 shooting to demand an investigation by an
independent body outside the agency. Currently, the Texas Rangers, an
elite force within DPS, is leading the investigation.
DPS identified the trooper involved as tactical flight officer Miguel
Avila. He was placed on administrative leave immediately following
the incident but has since returned to administrative work.
The Oct. 25 chase started after Texas Parks and Wildlife game wardens
spotted the red pickup near La Joya, near the U.S.-Mexico border
about 250 miles south of San Antonio. The DPS helicopter joined the
high-speed pursuit of what it believed was a "typical covered drug
load," and Avila fired from the air to disable the vehicle.
The truck crashed into a ditch. Six illegal immigrants from
Guatemala, not drugs, were hidden under a blanket in the bed. Two
died, and a third was injured. In total, there had been 11 people in
the truck.
The agency's statement Thursday reiterated earlier comments that
troopers believed they were pursuing a covered a drug load when shots
were fired. They believed the driver's recklessness was a threat to
the public and to elementary and middle schools less than three miles
away.
"Although it is very tragic that two lives were lost, had the vehicle
continued recklessly speeding through the school zone, any number of
innocent bystanders or young lives could have been lost or suffered
serious bodily injury," DPS director Steve McCraw said.
However, a map of the chase route provided by DPS showed four law
enforcement vehicles between where the truck was shot and the schools.
In a letter delivered to McCraw on Thursday, the ACLU suggested the
use of deadly force was "illegal and unconstitutional" and asked for
an investigation by an agency not tied to DPS.
Several probes seem possible. Guatemala's consul in Texas has
expressed skepticism that the troopers wouldn't have been able to see
people in the truck and asked for an investigation. Hidalgo County
District Attorney Rene Guerra announced Wednesday after meeting with
Texas Rangers that the case would be taken to a grand jury.
Two Texas legislators who sit on a House committee with oversight
over DPS have asked its chairman to immediately convene a hearing on
the matter. Rep. Lon Burnam, D-Fort Worth, and Rep. Armando Walle, D-
Houston, said they want the committee to review the trooper's conduct
and the agency's policy on firing at moving vehicles.
"The fact of the matter is neither human trafficking nor drug
trafficking deserves the death penalty without a trial," Burnam said.
"The two people who were killed are guilty of a misdemeanor."
Publicada: 01/11/2012 17:09 Por: Redacción ElImparcial
Encuentran "narcotúnel" en Nogales
Un túnel hacia Estados Unidos que era utilizado para actividades
ilícitas fue localizado el pasado 30 de octubre por elementos de la
45 zona Militar, en un sector próximo a la línea fronteriza, de la
colonia Fundo Legal.
http://www.elimparcial.com/EdicionEnLinea/Notas/Policiaca/
01112012/635962.aspx
NOGALES, Sonora(PH)
Un túnel hacia Estados Unidos que era utilizado para actividades
ilícitas fue localizado el pasado 30 de octubre por elementos de la
45 zona Militar, en un sector próximo a la línea fronteriza, de la
colonia Fundo Legal.
De acuerdo al comunicado del Ejercito Mexicano, el pasadizo fue
hallado en el callejón Rodolfo Siordia y calle Campillo e
Internacional y era de unos 25 metros de largo aproximadamente.
La entrada al túnel estaba en el interior de un inmueble, era de 2.5
metros de profundidad, reforzada con barrotes de contención y había
una polea que era utilizada para descender hacia el interior del
pasadizo.
Las fuerzas castrenses mantuvieron vigilancia en el lugar donde se
hizo el hallazgo del túnel y solo permitieron el acceso a las
personas residentes de ese sector como medida de seguridad.
Según el informe militar, el inmueble asegurado, quedó a disposición
del agente del Ministerio Público Federal, encargado de realizar la
averiguación previa, para el deslinde de responsabilidades.
AZMEX SPECIAL 1-11-12
AZMEX SPECIAL 1 NOV 2012
Comment: The posse is to be made up of ex military and law
enforcement, now let's see. When your correspondent was younger,
much younger, when he wore a green shirt, pants and a green hat. He
was handed a automatic weapon, a actual "assault weapon". ( with
bullets even) Even worse, he was allowed to have direct radio
contact with B-52s. A definitive WMD. But now, as with a lot of
other veterans, he doesn't wear the green hat, shirt, and pants, he
can't be trusted out in the AZ desert with a pop gun?
thx
Blog: Insurance concerns loom over Babeu's border posse
Sheriff Paul Babeu announced the formation of a new "Anti-Smuggling
Posse" in early October. It's made up of volunteers, who would be
armed and help back up officers in anti-smuggling operations.
41 minutes ago •
Tim Steller, Arizona Daily Star
http://azstarnet.com/news/blogs/senor-reporter/blog-insurance-
concerns-loom-over-babeu-s-border-posse/article_38fbaef2-2459-11e2-
a8ab-0019bb2963f4.html
Related Documents
Insurance letter to Babeu
From the time Sheriff Paul Babeu announced the formation of a new,
armed Anti-Smuggling Posse, some readers jumped straight to this
concern: What about liability for the volunteers' actions?
I asked Babeu's spokesman, Tim Gaffney that question a couple of
weeks ago, and he told me the county is liable for posse members'
actions.
Now, it turns out, the question has become more complicated, and
insurance coverage isn't assured.
To step back, this all started because Babeu announced he has formed
and is training a group of volunteers who could help with the
department's anti-smuggling operations. The idea is they would have a
backup role to the officers carrying out the operations. Babeu's
announcement represented the realization of a long-held dream among
Arizona Republicans of a border volunteer force.
On Wednesday, the Arizona Republic's Lindsey Collom reported that the
county's insurance company, the Arizona Counties Insurance Pool is
considering excluding Babeu's Anti-Smuggling Posse from liability
coverage. The pool's insurance underwriter said it's already re-
working the policy to exclude volunteers involved in law-enforcement
activities.
The pool's board of trustees shares the underwriter's concern and is
considering making a change to its policies to exclude the Anti-
Smuggling Posse from liability coverage, attorney Ken Sundlof told me
today.
"They're looking at the situation, and there may be a change," he said.
There are also concerns about workers' compensation coverage for the
posse volunteers, Sundlof wrote in a letter to Babeu Oct. 22
(attached). When I asked Gaffney about this in mid-October, he told
me via email, "If injured while in the performance of their duties
they will be covered under Workman's Comp just as other volunteers
and fulltime members are."
But Sundlof explained the coverage differently in his letter.
"Currently workers' compensation is extended to volunteers on a case
by case basis, as approved by the Board of Supervisors of the county
employing the volunteers. As such, workers' compensation coverage to
the Anti-Smuggling Posse volunteers will only be extended upon an
approval from the Pinal County Board of Supervisors."
This sends the insurance question into a whole different, highly
political realm. Babeu has regularly battled with the Pinal County
Board of Supervisors and especially with its chairman, Pete Rios. The
workers' compensation question gives Rios and the board some say over
the sheriff's unilateral decision to form the posse and could well
make the posse another Pinal County political issue.
Comment: The posse is to be made up of ex military and law
enforcement, now let's see. When your correspondent was younger,
much younger, when he wore a green shirt, pants and a green hat. He
was handed a automatic weapon, a actual "assault weapon". ( with
bullets even) Even worse, he was allowed to have direct radio
contact with B-52s. A definitive WMD. But now, as with a lot of
other veterans, he doesn't wear the green hat, shirt, and pants, he
can't be trusted out in the AZ desert with a pop gun?
thx
Blog: Insurance concerns loom over Babeu's border posse
Sheriff Paul Babeu announced the formation of a new "Anti-Smuggling
Posse" in early October. It's made up of volunteers, who would be
armed and help back up officers in anti-smuggling operations.
41 minutes ago •
Tim Steller, Arizona Daily Star
http://azstarnet.com/news/blogs/senor-reporter/blog-insurance-
concerns-loom-over-babeu-s-border-posse/article_38fbaef2-2459-11e2-
a8ab-0019bb2963f4.html
Related Documents
Insurance letter to Babeu
From the time Sheriff Paul Babeu announced the formation of a new,
armed Anti-Smuggling Posse, some readers jumped straight to this
concern: What about liability for the volunteers' actions?
I asked Babeu's spokesman, Tim Gaffney that question a couple of
weeks ago, and he told me the county is liable for posse members'
actions.
Now, it turns out, the question has become more complicated, and
insurance coverage isn't assured.
To step back, this all started because Babeu announced he has formed
and is training a group of volunteers who could help with the
department's anti-smuggling operations. The idea is they would have a
backup role to the officers carrying out the operations. Babeu's
announcement represented the realization of a long-held dream among
Arizona Republicans of a border volunteer force.
On Wednesday, the Arizona Republic's Lindsey Collom reported that the
county's insurance company, the Arizona Counties Insurance Pool is
considering excluding Babeu's Anti-Smuggling Posse from liability
coverage. The pool's insurance underwriter said it's already re-
working the policy to exclude volunteers involved in law-enforcement
activities.
The pool's board of trustees shares the underwriter's concern and is
considering making a change to its policies to exclude the Anti-
Smuggling Posse from liability coverage, attorney Ken Sundlof told me
today.
"They're looking at the situation, and there may be a change," he said.
There are also concerns about workers' compensation coverage for the
posse volunteers, Sundlof wrote in a letter to Babeu Oct. 22
(attached). When I asked Gaffney about this in mid-October, he told
me via email, "If injured while in the performance of their duties
they will be covered under Workman's Comp just as other volunteers
and fulltime members are."
But Sundlof explained the coverage differently in his letter.
"Currently workers' compensation is extended to volunteers on a case
by case basis, as approved by the Board of Supervisors of the county
employing the volunteers. As such, workers' compensation coverage to
the Anti-Smuggling Posse volunteers will only be extended upon an
approval from the Pinal County Board of Supervisors."
This sends the insurance question into a whole different, highly
political realm. Babeu has regularly battled with the Pinal County
Board of Supervisors and especially with its chairman, Pete Rios. The
workers' compensation question gives Rios and the board some say over
the sheriff's unilateral decision to form the posse and could well
make the posse another Pinal County political issue.
AZMEX EXTRA 1-11-12
AZMEX EXTRA 1 NOV 2012
Note: far more deadly than any AK or AR pop gun. Considering that,
once again a very light sentence.
1 November 2012 Last updated at 15:18 ET
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-20164725
A retired London businessman has pleaded guilty in a US court to
selling weapons parts to Iran.
Christopher Tappin, 66, made the plea at a court in El Paso, Texas,
in an agreement with US prosecutors.
He is due to be sentenced on 9 January for selling surface-to-air
missile parts to Iran.
His guilty plea calls for a 33-month sentence which prosecutors have
said they would not oppose him serving in the UK.
'Beginning of process'
Speaking last week, his wife Elaine, 62, said "however upsetting" the
plea deal was, it marked the beginning of the process to get him home.
Mrs Tappin, who has chronic Churg-Strauss syndrome, said: "From the
moment Chris was put on a plane all we ever wanted was his swift and
safe return.
"However upsetting, this is the beginning of that process."
Tappin, of Orpington, south-east London, has been on bail since being
extradited to the US in February.
The former president of the Kent Golf Union and former director of
Surrey-based Brooklands International Freight Services previously
denied attempting to sell batteries for surface-to-air missiles that
were to be shipped from the US to Tehran via the Netherlands, saying
he was the victim of an FBI sting.
He had pleaded not guilty but changed his plea earlier in an
agreement with US prosecutors.
Tappin had faced up to 35 years in jail.
The case followed an investigation, which began in 2005 when US
agents asked technology providers about buyers who might have raised
red flags.
Those customers were then approached by undercover companies set up
by government agencies.
'Jury and executioner'
Briton Robert Gibson, an associate of Tappin who agreed to co-
operate, was jailed for 24 months after pleading guilty to conspiracy
to export defence articles.
Gibson provided customs agents with about 16,000 computer files and
emails indicating that he and Tappin had long-standing commercial
ties with Iranian customers.
American Robert Caldwell was also found guilty of aiding and abetting
the illegal transport of defence articles and served 20 months in
prison.
Plea bargaining is common in the US, with defendants often able to
secure a more lenient sentence if they admit an offence and co-
operate with prosecutors, rather than contest the charges in a trial.
But other extradited Britons - including so-called NatWest Three
banker David Bermingham, who was jailed for 37 months over an Enron-
related fraud in a plea deal four years ago - have claimed the system
empowers prosecutors as "judge, jury and executioner".
Note: far more deadly than any AK or AR pop gun. Considering that,
once again a very light sentence.
1 November 2012 Last updated at 15:18 ET
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-20164725
A retired London businessman has pleaded guilty in a US court to
selling weapons parts to Iran.
Christopher Tappin, 66, made the plea at a court in El Paso, Texas,
in an agreement with US prosecutors.
He is due to be sentenced on 9 January for selling surface-to-air
missile parts to Iran.
His guilty plea calls for a 33-month sentence which prosecutors have
said they would not oppose him serving in the UK.
'Beginning of process'
Speaking last week, his wife Elaine, 62, said "however upsetting" the
plea deal was, it marked the beginning of the process to get him home.
Mrs Tappin, who has chronic Churg-Strauss syndrome, said: "From the
moment Chris was put on a plane all we ever wanted was his swift and
safe return.
"However upsetting, this is the beginning of that process."
Tappin, of Orpington, south-east London, has been on bail since being
extradited to the US in February.
The former president of the Kent Golf Union and former director of
Surrey-based Brooklands International Freight Services previously
denied attempting to sell batteries for surface-to-air missiles that
were to be shipped from the US to Tehran via the Netherlands, saying
he was the victim of an FBI sting.
He had pleaded not guilty but changed his plea earlier in an
agreement with US prosecutors.
Tappin had faced up to 35 years in jail.
The case followed an investigation, which began in 2005 when US
agents asked technology providers about buyers who might have raised
red flags.
Those customers were then approached by undercover companies set up
by government agencies.
'Jury and executioner'
Briton Robert Gibson, an associate of Tappin who agreed to co-
operate, was jailed for 24 months after pleading guilty to conspiracy
to export defence articles.
Gibson provided customs agents with about 16,000 computer files and
emails indicating that he and Tappin had long-standing commercial
ties with Iranian customers.
American Robert Caldwell was also found guilty of aiding and abetting
the illegal transport of defence articles and served 20 months in
prison.
Plea bargaining is common in the US, with defendants often able to
secure a more lenient sentence if they admit an offence and co-
operate with prosecutors, rather than contest the charges in a trial.
But other extradited Britons - including so-called NatWest Three
banker David Bermingham, who was jailed for 37 months over an Enron-
related fraud in a plea deal four years ago - have claimed the system
empowers prosecutors as "judge, jury and executioner".
AZMEX UPDATE 31-10-12
AZMEX UPDATE 31 OCT 2012
Note: We have been hearing of major increases of cross border
activity over the past couple days
Last Updated on Wednesday, 31 October 2012 02:18
Written by AZBDNews
Wednesday, 31 October 2012 01:39
AZ Border Defenders trail cameras continue to catch video of illegal
aliens, drug smugglers and now an armed drug smuggler 30 miles North
of the border. This video shows two Drug Smugglers walking down an
active drug and human smuggling trail. The first Drug Smuggler is
carrying an AK-47 with him.
http://azborderdefenders.org/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GASfbPUpdHA&feature=g-u-u
Note: had to include this one. Can go to webpage to see photos. No
info on status of vehicle.
On the fence: SUV gets stuck in smuggling attempt
October 30, 2012 8:08 PM
BY CHRIS McDANIEL - SUN STAFF WRITER
Two men attempting to enter the United States illegally early Tuesday
morning were thwarted when their SUV got stuck on top of the border
fence 20 miles west of Yuma.
Shortly after midnight, Border Patrol agents patrolling the Imperial
Sand Dunes encountered a silver Jeep Cherokee attempting to drive
over the International Boundary fence using a make-shift ramp
extending from Mexico into the United States.
The ramp's flawed design caused the Jeep to become "high centered,"
and unable to move as it drove over the precipice of the 14-feet-high
fence.
When the agents approached the stranded vehicle, two men fled into
Mexico. The agents removed the Jeep from the fence, and seized both
the vehicle and the ramp.
It was unknown if there had been any contraband in the vehicle prior
to the arrival of the agents "but we are assuming that there was,"
said Border Patrol Agent Spencer Tippets, public affairs officer for
the Yuma Sector. "The back of the vehicle was opened, so it appears
that they took all that out before the agents arrived."
Construction of the border fence, in combination with other
interdiction measures, has helped to slow the tide of smugglers
entering the country illegally in the Yuma area, Tippets said.
"When smuggling organizations make an attempt like this, it helps us
to realize how successful we really are here in the Yuma Sector.
Before they didn't have to use drastic measures. But now that the
border has essentially been shut down in this area, they are left
with only drastic measures — things that they wouldn't normally ever
even consider."
In April 2011, Half a million dollars worth of marijuana was seized
from smugglers who used a portable truck ramp to illegally enter the
U.S. near the southern-most end of Foothills Boulevard.
"It was kind of a similar attempt," Tippets said. "In that instance
they were successful in getting the vehicle over, but agents found
them and seized the vehicle."
Border Patrol Agents will remain vigilant against all attempts by
smugglers to enter the US illegally, Tippets added.
"We will continue to stop them every opportunity we have."
Tuesday's seizure happened in the vicinity of where Border Patrol
Agent Luis Aguilar was killed in 2007 when he was deliberately struck
by a vehicle while attempting to deploy a controlled tire deflation
device.
Chris McDaniel can be reached at cmcdaniel@yumasun.com or 539-6849.
Read more: http://www.yumasun.com/articles/border-82831-agents-
fence.html#ixzz2AtpdBwIN
Border Patrol seizes $218k worth of marijuana
October 31, 2012 10:18 PM
BY JAMES GILBERT @YSJamesGilbert
U.S. Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sector's Wellton Station
apprehended 10 suspected drug smugglers and seized approximately 437
pounds of marijuana during separate incidents over the past few days.
On Wednesday, agents patrolling south of Gila Bend discovered six
sets of footprints believed to belong to drug smugglers. Agents then
began to track the footprints, eventually apprehending the suspects,
who were found to be carrying more than 200 pounds of marijuana.
The marijuana, worth $101,000, was seized and the six suspected
smugglers were arrested and processed for prosecution.
On Friday, agents who were patrolling in the same area apprehended
four individuals traveling on foot through the desert, carrying
bundles of marijuana.
The marijuana, with a total weight of 235 pounds, was worth $117,500.
The marijuana and suspects were turned over to the Maricopa County
Sheriff's Office.
Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the
community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border
Patrol and remain anonymous
Read more: http://www.yumasun.com/articles/marijuana-82861-agents-
border.html#ixzz2AzbSir5d
Note: We have been hearing of major increases of cross border
activity over the past couple days
Last Updated on Wednesday, 31 October 2012 02:18
Written by AZBDNews
Wednesday, 31 October 2012 01:39
AZ Border Defenders trail cameras continue to catch video of illegal
aliens, drug smugglers and now an armed drug smuggler 30 miles North
of the border. This video shows two Drug Smugglers walking down an
active drug and human smuggling trail. The first Drug Smuggler is
carrying an AK-47 with him.
http://azborderdefenders.org/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GASfbPUpdHA&feature=g-u-u
Note: had to include this one. Can go to webpage to see photos. No
info on status of vehicle.
On the fence: SUV gets stuck in smuggling attempt
October 30, 2012 8:08 PM
BY CHRIS McDANIEL - SUN STAFF WRITER
Two men attempting to enter the United States illegally early Tuesday
morning were thwarted when their SUV got stuck on top of the border
fence 20 miles west of Yuma.
Shortly after midnight, Border Patrol agents patrolling the Imperial
Sand Dunes encountered a silver Jeep Cherokee attempting to drive
over the International Boundary fence using a make-shift ramp
extending from Mexico into the United States.
The ramp's flawed design caused the Jeep to become "high centered,"
and unable to move as it drove over the precipice of the 14-feet-high
fence.
When the agents approached the stranded vehicle, two men fled into
Mexico. The agents removed the Jeep from the fence, and seized both
the vehicle and the ramp.
It was unknown if there had been any contraband in the vehicle prior
to the arrival of the agents "but we are assuming that there was,"
said Border Patrol Agent Spencer Tippets, public affairs officer for
the Yuma Sector. "The back of the vehicle was opened, so it appears
that they took all that out before the agents arrived."
Construction of the border fence, in combination with other
interdiction measures, has helped to slow the tide of smugglers
entering the country illegally in the Yuma area, Tippets said.
"When smuggling organizations make an attempt like this, it helps us
to realize how successful we really are here in the Yuma Sector.
Before they didn't have to use drastic measures. But now that the
border has essentially been shut down in this area, they are left
with only drastic measures — things that they wouldn't normally ever
even consider."
In April 2011, Half a million dollars worth of marijuana was seized
from smugglers who used a portable truck ramp to illegally enter the
U.S. near the southern-most end of Foothills Boulevard.
"It was kind of a similar attempt," Tippets said. "In that instance
they were successful in getting the vehicle over, but agents found
them and seized the vehicle."
Border Patrol Agents will remain vigilant against all attempts by
smugglers to enter the US illegally, Tippets added.
"We will continue to stop them every opportunity we have."
Tuesday's seizure happened in the vicinity of where Border Patrol
Agent Luis Aguilar was killed in 2007 when he was deliberately struck
by a vehicle while attempting to deploy a controlled tire deflation
device.
Chris McDaniel can be reached at cmcdaniel@yumasun.com or 539-6849.
Read more: http://www.yumasun.com/articles/border-82831-agents-
fence.html#ixzz2AtpdBwIN
Border Patrol seizes $218k worth of marijuana
October 31, 2012 10:18 PM
BY JAMES GILBERT @YSJamesGilbert
U.S. Border Patrol agents from Yuma Sector's Wellton Station
apprehended 10 suspected drug smugglers and seized approximately 437
pounds of marijuana during separate incidents over the past few days.
On Wednesday, agents patrolling south of Gila Bend discovered six
sets of footprints believed to belong to drug smugglers. Agents then
began to track the footprints, eventually apprehending the suspects,
who were found to be carrying more than 200 pounds of marijuana.
The marijuana, worth $101,000, was seized and the six suspected
smugglers were arrested and processed for prosecution.
On Friday, agents who were patrolling in the same area apprehended
four individuals traveling on foot through the desert, carrying
bundles of marijuana.
The marijuana, with a total weight of 235 pounds, was worth $117,500.
The marijuana and suspects were turned over to the Maricopa County
Sheriff's Office.
Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the
community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border
Patrol and remain anonymous
Read more: http://www.yumasun.com/articles/marijuana-82861-agents-
border.html#ixzz2AzbSir5d
AZMEX EXTRA 31-10-12
AZMEX EXTRA 31 OCT 2012
Note: investigate a few weapons? As the following press release
from Mex. army, grenades everywhere.
The Mexican government has details on all weapons recovered,
including from their own supplies. Should aid dollars be made
contingent on release of that info?
Mexico: Probe to follow Miguel Alemán weapons seizure
Posted: Wednesday, October 31, 2012 9:18 pm
Ildefonso Ortiz
http://www.themonitor.com/news/local/
article_6789f966-23ca-11e2-81ac-001a4bcf6878.html
Mexico's Attorney General's Office, known as the PGR, has launched an
investigation into the seizure of a weapons cache left behind by two
gunmen in a rural part of Ciudad Miguel Alemán, which lies across the
Rio Grande from Roma.
The Mexican military was carrying out a routine patrol in the rural
area of Puertecitos when they spotted two men in the brush who ran
away when they saw the soldiers, according to a PGR news release
issued Wednesday.
When the soldiers took a closer look, they found two duffel bags on
the ground.
Inside the bags authorities found two grenade launchers, two hand
grenades, one AR-15 rifle, one AK-47 rifle, a hunting rifle, a .22-
caliber rifle, three handguns and various types of ammunition.
The weapons were turned over to the PGR for further investigation.
--
Note: updated from earlier in week. Large number of grenades.
Lomas de Sotelo, DF, to October 29, 2012.
http://www.sedena.gob.mx/index.php/sala-de-prensa/comunicados-de-
prensa/9490-29-de-octubre-de-2012-lomas-de-sotelo-df
The Mexican Army said in Apatzingan, Mich., Weapons and cash of the
criminal organization "The Knights Templar".
The National Defense Secretariat informs the public that within the
framework of the Comprehensive Strategy of the Mexican state against
Drug Trafficking and Organized Crime, on 27 October this year, troops
of the 43 / a. Military Zone, by exploiting information failed to
detect a ranch called "Los Caballos", located in the town of Los
Cuiniques, Apatzingán Township, Mich., Which was used by organized
crime for various illegal purposes.
When arriving at the said place, military troops were attacked with
gunfire and grenades by an indefinite number of people, so that
their physical defense repelled the attack and died on the scene one
of the attackers died on the scene and the rest ran away.
Importantly, this ranch allegedly owned by Enrique Plancarte Solis
(a) "Kike Plancarte" and / or "Kiki", who is noted as one of the main
leaders of the criminal organization "The Knights Templar".
After securing the area, the military personnel carried out the
review of the property have been located within the following:
13 kilograms of marijuana.
600 grams of crystal.
80 grams of cocaine.
15 handguns.
19 rifles.
1 .50 caliber Barrett rifle.
106 40 mm grenades.
4 hand grenades.
One mortar shell.
17 grenade launcher attachments for 40 mm caliber.
3 85 mm caliber rockets.
1 antitank rocket launchers.
339 magazines for different calibers.
22,260 cartridges of different calibers.
5 weapons (knives) of different sizes.
$ 1'152, 526.50 (ONE MILLION TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND FIVE
HUNDRED TWENTY PESOS 50/100 MN).
U.S. $ 312,310.
2 vehicles (one reported as stolen).
Afterguard diverse.
The seized and the body of the deceased were made available to the
appropriate authorities.
These actions did affect the operational and logistical structures of
the criminal organization "The Knights Templar" and limit their areas
of influence to strengthen the rule of law should prevail throughout
the country.
The National Defense Secretariat reaffirms the unwavering decision to
continue fighting front and forcefully to various criminal
organizations operating in our country, in a framework of respect for
the rule of law and with the firm intention to strengthen the climate
of peace, order and security deserved of Mexican society.
Note: investigate a few weapons? As the following press release
from Mex. army, grenades everywhere.
The Mexican government has details on all weapons recovered,
including from their own supplies. Should aid dollars be made
contingent on release of that info?
Mexico: Probe to follow Miguel Alemán weapons seizure
Posted: Wednesday, October 31, 2012 9:18 pm
Ildefonso Ortiz
http://www.themonitor.com/news/local/
article_6789f966-23ca-11e2-81ac-001a4bcf6878.html
Mexico's Attorney General's Office, known as the PGR, has launched an
investigation into the seizure of a weapons cache left behind by two
gunmen in a rural part of Ciudad Miguel Alemán, which lies across the
Rio Grande from Roma.
The Mexican military was carrying out a routine patrol in the rural
area of Puertecitos when they spotted two men in the brush who ran
away when they saw the soldiers, according to a PGR news release
issued Wednesday.
When the soldiers took a closer look, they found two duffel bags on
the ground.
Inside the bags authorities found two grenade launchers, two hand
grenades, one AR-15 rifle, one AK-47 rifle, a hunting rifle, a .22-
caliber rifle, three handguns and various types of ammunition.
The weapons were turned over to the PGR for further investigation.
--
Note: updated from earlier in week. Large number of grenades.
Lomas de Sotelo, DF, to October 29, 2012.
http://www.sedena.gob.mx/index.php/sala-de-prensa/comunicados-de-
prensa/9490-29-de-octubre-de-2012-lomas-de-sotelo-df
The Mexican Army said in Apatzingan, Mich., Weapons and cash of the
criminal organization "The Knights Templar".
The National Defense Secretariat informs the public that within the
framework of the Comprehensive Strategy of the Mexican state against
Drug Trafficking and Organized Crime, on 27 October this year, troops
of the 43 / a. Military Zone, by exploiting information failed to
detect a ranch called "Los Caballos", located in the town of Los
Cuiniques, Apatzingán Township, Mich., Which was used by organized
crime for various illegal purposes.
When arriving at the said place, military troops were attacked with
gunfire and grenades by an indefinite number of people, so that
their physical defense repelled the attack and died on the scene one
of the attackers died on the scene and the rest ran away.
Importantly, this ranch allegedly owned by Enrique Plancarte Solis
(a) "Kike Plancarte" and / or "Kiki", who is noted as one of the main
leaders of the criminal organization "The Knights Templar".
After securing the area, the military personnel carried out the
review of the property have been located within the following:
13 kilograms of marijuana.
600 grams of crystal.
80 grams of cocaine.
15 handguns.
19 rifles.
1 .50 caliber Barrett rifle.
106 40 mm grenades.
4 hand grenades.
One mortar shell.
17 grenade launcher attachments for 40 mm caliber.
3 85 mm caliber rockets.
1 antitank rocket launchers.
339 magazines for different calibers.
22,260 cartridges of different calibers.
5 weapons (knives) of different sizes.
$ 1'152, 526.50 (ONE MILLION TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND FIVE
HUNDRED TWENTY PESOS 50/100 MN).
U.S. $ 312,310.
2 vehicles (one reported as stolen).
Afterguard diverse.
The seized and the body of the deceased were made available to the
appropriate authorities.
These actions did affect the operational and logistical structures of
the criminal organization "The Knights Templar" and limit their areas
of influence to strengthen the rule of law should prevail throughout
the country.
The National Defense Secretariat reaffirms the unwavering decision to
continue fighting front and forcefully to various criminal
organizations operating in our country, in a framework of respect for
the rule of law and with the firm intention to strengthen the climate
of peace, order and security deserved of Mexican society.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
AZMEX UPDATE 30-10-12
AZMEX UPDATE 30 OCT 2012
Man wanted in Nevada arrested at Arizona border
By Associated Press
Originally published: Oct 30, 2012 - 2:00 pm
http://www.ktar.com/22/1585375/Man-wanted-in-Nevada-arrested-at-
Arizona-border
SAN LUIS, Ariz. -- A man wanted on a warrant for attempted murder in
Nevada has been arrested at the southern Arizona border.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers said Ever Geovany Vivar
Jr., 20, was taken into custody Monday to the San Luis Port of Entry.
CBP officers referred Vivar for additional questioning when he
attempted to enter Arizona through the pedestrian area.
After officers ran a routine records check and discovered an active
arrest warrant out of Reno, Vivar was turned over to the Yuma County
Sheriff's Office.
Authorities didn't immediately provide additional information on the
Nevada warrant Tuesday and they didn't know whether Vivar has a
lawyer yet.
Officers begin search after 2 flee traffic stop
By Martha Maurer
Originally published: Oct 30, 2012 - 1:00 pm
http://www.ktar.com/22/1585359/Officers-begin-search-after-2-flee-
traffic-stop
Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is looking for two people who fled
after a traffic stop near Interstate 10 and Warner Road.
Sgt. Brandon Jones said when officers stopped the car, more than a
dozen people ran.
"We were able to get 13 people out of that vehicle in custody. We are
still searching for the driver and passenger of that vehicle," said
Jones.
Blog: Report suggest narcos have 'enslaved' engineers in Mexico
José Antonioi Robledo Fernández disappeared in 2009, and his parents
suspect he was put to work by organized crime in Coahuila state.
Tim Steller, Arizona Daily Star
http://azstarnet.com/news/blogs/senor-reporter/blog-report-suggest-
narcos-have-enslaved-engineers-in-mexico/
article_f85a25bc-22c9-11e2-9320-001a4bcf887a.html
Late on the night of June 19 2009, a group of armed men went to a
home in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas and kidnapped nine men.
The nine were members of a team from Sinaloa in town to install
telephone towers.
Hours after the armed men took the technicians, the attackers
returned and took their equipment.
Nextel officials brought the case to the attention of President
Felipe Calderon, but it is still unresolved. The men are gone.
The case is one of several highlighted in a new investigative report
by Mexican news site Animal Politico and InSight Crime. The thrust of
the report is that over recent years, at least 36 professionals have
disappeared in Mexico under circumstances that suggest they may have
been forced to work for their captors.
Specifically, the piece argues, engineers, technicians and others may
have been put to work building communications networks. It notes that
in the last few years, authorities have dismantled more than 400
antennas and repeaters set up by organized-crime groups.
One network, operated by the Zetas in northeastern Mexico, consisted
of 167 antennas and 155 repeaters that linked 1,450 radios and 1,300
cell phones and 1,350 Nextel radioes, all controlled by 70 computers.
Have these kidnapped professionals been put to work building the
networks? The report doesn't prove that, but it poses an interesting
question: Why so many of the kidnapped professionals have disappeared
without a trace. That is, no bodies have been found, and no ransom
has been demanded.
The report gives the greatest attention to the case of engineer José
Antonio Robledo Fernández, who was kidnapped on Jan. 25, 2009 in
Monclava, Coahuila, while speaking to his girlfriend on the phone.
Robledo Fernández was working for construction firm ICA Flour Daniel,
had experience installing antennas and spoke perfect English.
Three days after he disappeared, his parents were in a hotel in
Monclova where they had gone to find their son. A knock came on the
door, and it was the company's the security chief, accompanied by two
members of the Zetas organized-crime group.
"They told us not to go to the police, that they were controling the
police in Monclova and in Saltillo, that they would help us and our
contact would be ICA's security chief," Robledo Fernández's mother,
Guadalupe, said.
The parents went to the police anyway. It turned out the firm had
been paying protection money to criminals, and the security chief was
involved with the Zetas, the report says. Several engineers and other
employees had been kidnapped anyway.
The young man's father, also named José, said: "Sometimes my wife and
I have slapped our foreheads thinking it would have been better to
negotiate with them, with the criminals, instead of wanting to do
things the legal way."
InSight Crime, Animal Político and others are putting out a series of
pieces on those "enslaved" by organized crime in Latin America.
Here's a piece in English on women enslaved by traffickers, and a
piece in Spanish on children.
Note: Have to wonder if el chapo's stuff or someone else's. Could
be indicator .
Published: 30/10/2012 9:46 by: Editorial ElImparcial
They seize 2 tons. of marijuana in Nogales
http://www.elimparcial.com/EdicionEnLinea/Notas/Policiaca/
30102012/635056.aspx
NOGALES, Sonora (PH)
A total of 2 tons 260 kilos 700 grams of marijuana were seized by
military personnel conducted a raid on a ranch in Nogales, Sonora.
In coordination with the Public Safety State Police, soldiers spotted
the drug in a basement and made it available to federal authorities.
Were 273 packages of different sizes which were located in the basement.
The state police and military conducted ground surveys in the
Municipality.
Note: Among other things, several RPG rounds in photos.
Organización Editorial Mexicana
October 29, 2012
Jose Luna / El Sol de Mexico
http://www.oem.com.mx/elsoldemexico/notas/n2751360.htm
City of Mexico-The Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) reported
assurance in Apatzingan, Michoacan, a ranch owned by Enrique
Plancarte Solis (a) "Kike Plancarte" and / or "Kiki", who is noted as
one of the main leaders of the criminal organization "The Knights
Templar" also seized several weapons, varying amounts of drugs, more
than $ 300,000 and one million 152 thousand pesos.
As part of the Comprehensive Strategy of the Mexican state against
Drug Trafficking and Organized Crime, dependence noted that personnel
assigned to the 43 / a. Military Zone, located the ranch called "The
Horse", in the town of Los Cuiniques, Apatzingán Township, which was
used by organized crime for various illegal purposes.
In a statement, he said that when they arrived the troops were
attacked with gunfire and grenades firearms by an indefinite number
of people, so repelled the attack and one of the attackers died at
the scene and the rest ran away.
Police disarmed by armed group in the heart of Mazatlan
The suspects fled in a white van headed for Xtrail Avenue German
Northwest
29.10.2012 | 24:10
MAZATLÁN._
http://www.noroeste.com.mx/publicaciones.php?id=822007
A group of criminals disarmed a policeman in the center of the city,
on the corner that make Belisario Dominguez and Constitution.
According to the police report, at 11:27 hours, the armed group took
from the agent a 9 mm pistol and an AR-15 rifle. a bank Banorte is
located in that corner.
Unofficially mentioned that offenders have assaulted an account
holder who would have been stripped of more than 100,000 pesos: at
the time under investigation.
The suspects fled in a white van headed for Xtrail Avenue German.
For the alleged assault and battery effected a strong municipal
police search operation with no results so far.
Man wanted in Nevada arrested at Arizona border
By Associated Press
Originally published: Oct 30, 2012 - 2:00 pm
http://www.ktar.com/22/1585375/Man-wanted-in-Nevada-arrested-at-
Arizona-border
SAN LUIS, Ariz. -- A man wanted on a warrant for attempted murder in
Nevada has been arrested at the southern Arizona border.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers said Ever Geovany Vivar
Jr., 20, was taken into custody Monday to the San Luis Port of Entry.
CBP officers referred Vivar for additional questioning when he
attempted to enter Arizona through the pedestrian area.
After officers ran a routine records check and discovered an active
arrest warrant out of Reno, Vivar was turned over to the Yuma County
Sheriff's Office.
Authorities didn't immediately provide additional information on the
Nevada warrant Tuesday and they didn't know whether Vivar has a
lawyer yet.
Officers begin search after 2 flee traffic stop
By Martha Maurer
Originally published: Oct 30, 2012 - 1:00 pm
http://www.ktar.com/22/1585359/Officers-begin-search-after-2-flee-
traffic-stop
Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is looking for two people who fled
after a traffic stop near Interstate 10 and Warner Road.
Sgt. Brandon Jones said when officers stopped the car, more than a
dozen people ran.
"We were able to get 13 people out of that vehicle in custody. We are
still searching for the driver and passenger of that vehicle," said
Jones.
Blog: Report suggest narcos have 'enslaved' engineers in Mexico
José Antonioi Robledo Fernández disappeared in 2009, and his parents
suspect he was put to work by organized crime in Coahuila state.
Tim Steller, Arizona Daily Star
http://azstarnet.com/news/blogs/senor-reporter/blog-report-suggest-
narcos-have-enslaved-engineers-in-mexico/
article_f85a25bc-22c9-11e2-9320-001a4bcf887a.html
Late on the night of June 19 2009, a group of armed men went to a
home in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas and kidnapped nine men.
The nine were members of a team from Sinaloa in town to install
telephone towers.
Hours after the armed men took the technicians, the attackers
returned and took their equipment.
Nextel officials brought the case to the attention of President
Felipe Calderon, but it is still unresolved. The men are gone.
The case is one of several highlighted in a new investigative report
by Mexican news site Animal Politico and InSight Crime. The thrust of
the report is that over recent years, at least 36 professionals have
disappeared in Mexico under circumstances that suggest they may have
been forced to work for their captors.
Specifically, the piece argues, engineers, technicians and others may
have been put to work building communications networks. It notes that
in the last few years, authorities have dismantled more than 400
antennas and repeaters set up by organized-crime groups.
One network, operated by the Zetas in northeastern Mexico, consisted
of 167 antennas and 155 repeaters that linked 1,450 radios and 1,300
cell phones and 1,350 Nextel radioes, all controlled by 70 computers.
Have these kidnapped professionals been put to work building the
networks? The report doesn't prove that, but it poses an interesting
question: Why so many of the kidnapped professionals have disappeared
without a trace. That is, no bodies have been found, and no ransom
has been demanded.
The report gives the greatest attention to the case of engineer José
Antonio Robledo Fernández, who was kidnapped on Jan. 25, 2009 in
Monclava, Coahuila, while speaking to his girlfriend on the phone.
Robledo Fernández was working for construction firm ICA Flour Daniel,
had experience installing antennas and spoke perfect English.
Three days after he disappeared, his parents were in a hotel in
Monclova where they had gone to find their son. A knock came on the
door, and it was the company's the security chief, accompanied by two
members of the Zetas organized-crime group.
"They told us not to go to the police, that they were controling the
police in Monclova and in Saltillo, that they would help us and our
contact would be ICA's security chief," Robledo Fernández's mother,
Guadalupe, said.
The parents went to the police anyway. It turned out the firm had
been paying protection money to criminals, and the security chief was
involved with the Zetas, the report says. Several engineers and other
employees had been kidnapped anyway.
The young man's father, also named José, said: "Sometimes my wife and
I have slapped our foreheads thinking it would have been better to
negotiate with them, with the criminals, instead of wanting to do
things the legal way."
InSight Crime, Animal Político and others are putting out a series of
pieces on those "enslaved" by organized crime in Latin America.
Here's a piece in English on women enslaved by traffickers, and a
piece in Spanish on children.
Note: Have to wonder if el chapo's stuff or someone else's. Could
be indicator .
Published: 30/10/2012 9:46 by: Editorial ElImparcial
They seize 2 tons. of marijuana in Nogales
http://www.elimparcial.com/EdicionEnLinea/Notas/Policiaca/
30102012/635056.aspx
NOGALES, Sonora (PH)
A total of 2 tons 260 kilos 700 grams of marijuana were seized by
military personnel conducted a raid on a ranch in Nogales, Sonora.
In coordination with the Public Safety State Police, soldiers spotted
the drug in a basement and made it available to federal authorities.
Were 273 packages of different sizes which were located in the basement.
The state police and military conducted ground surveys in the
Municipality.
Note: Among other things, several RPG rounds in photos.
Organización Editorial Mexicana
October 29, 2012
Jose Luna / El Sol de Mexico
http://www.oem.com.mx/elsoldemexico/notas/n2751360.htm
City of Mexico-The Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA) reported
assurance in Apatzingan, Michoacan, a ranch owned by Enrique
Plancarte Solis (a) "Kike Plancarte" and / or "Kiki", who is noted as
one of the main leaders of the criminal organization "The Knights
Templar" also seized several weapons, varying amounts of drugs, more
than $ 300,000 and one million 152 thousand pesos.
As part of the Comprehensive Strategy of the Mexican state against
Drug Trafficking and Organized Crime, dependence noted that personnel
assigned to the 43 / a. Military Zone, located the ranch called "The
Horse", in the town of Los Cuiniques, Apatzingán Township, which was
used by organized crime for various illegal purposes.
In a statement, he said that when they arrived the troops were
attacked with gunfire and grenades firearms by an indefinite number
of people, so repelled the attack and one of the attackers died at
the scene and the rest ran away.
Police disarmed by armed group in the heart of Mazatlan
The suspects fled in a white van headed for Xtrail Avenue German
Northwest
29.10.2012 | 24:10
MAZATLÁN._
http://www.noroeste.com.mx/publicaciones.php?id=822007
A group of criminals disarmed a policeman in the center of the city,
on the corner that make Belisario Dominguez and Constitution.
According to the police report, at 11:27 hours, the armed group took
from the agent a 9 mm pistol and an AR-15 rifle. a bank Banorte is
located in that corner.
Unofficially mentioned that offenders have assaulted an account
holder who would have been stripped of more than 100,000 pesos: at
the time under investigation.
The suspects fled in a white van headed for Xtrail Avenue German.
For the alleged assault and battery effected a strong municipal
police search operation with no results so far.
AZMEX SPECIAL 29-10-12
AZMEX SPECIAL 29 OCT 2012
Note: Not quite that new, but interesting read.
Hijacked cargo new threat for firms in Mexico
October 28, 2012 12:00 am •
Dale Quinn For The Arizona Daily Star(
http://azstarnet.com/business/local/hijacked-cargo-new-threat-for-
firms-in-mexico/article_47b246c4-df31-5997-a15e-72cd81448ee7.html
GUADALAJARA, Jalisco - International companies that move goods from
Mexico into the United States have beefed up security measures in
response to increasingly organized, well-armed highway robbers.
These hijackers know what they want, which trucks are carrying it and
how to sell stolen products on the black market. As a result, some
companies that carry valuable merchandise - such as computers and
electronics - have gone so far as to use armed guards to escort their
loads through areas known to be particularly precarious.
"These criminals are now considered organized crime and they are more
prepared than in years past," Juan Carlos Aceves, who helps companies
secure their cargo as it travels through Mexico, said in Spanish.
Aceves works for a food company with operations in Central America,
Canada and Mexico.
At times, these organizations infiltrate companies and bribe
employees, Aceves said. Some hijackers are so well-informed they know
when a tractor-trailer is going to leave a location and what route it
will take, which allows them to plan the robbery in advance, Aceves
said.
Companies are tight-lipped about their security processes. A
representative from the computer company Hewlett-Packard, which has
manufacturing operations in Mexico, said its policy does not allow
for any discussion about its security process. Intel, Flextronics and
Jabil, other high-tech companies with operations in Mexico, didn't
respond to requests for comment.
Safe - with precautions
Those who work with international companies in Mexico stressed that
moving merchandise through the country is safe when the proper
precautions are taken. But the topic is clearly on the minds of those
who do business in a country with a reputation that's been tarnished
by violent drug smuggling organizations.
In May, warehouses and vehicle lots of the Mexican snack maker
Sabritas, a subsidiary of U.S. food giant PepsiCo., were hit by a
series of firebomb attacks. News reports said the company's
operations in the Mexican states of Michoacán and Guanajuato had been
targeted for extortion by a drug cartel.
On Aug. 25, criminals set vehicles ablaze at major access points to
Guadalajara - the country's second-largest city - in brazen acts that
clogged traffic and alarmed residents. Drug-smuggling organizations
carry out these blockades, which locals call narcobloqueos, as
demonstrations of power when one of their leaders is captured or
killed. They are especially disconcerting for Guadalajara, as the
city, which has a cluster of high-tech manufacturing companies and is
often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of Mexico," had long been
considered immune from drug-trade violence.
The narcobloqueos do have an impact on the area's image and
demonstrate how important it is that companies use safety measures
and have insurance, said David Toscano, the general director of
SADESPE, a security consulting company in Guadalajara. But they also
show that the authorities are acting against those responsible for
much of the violence, said Toscano, who's also the chairman of the
American Chamber of Commerce's security committee in Guadalajara.
Maquilas not targeted
Nelson Balido, the president of the Border Trade Alliance, called the
attacks on the Sabritas factories an "isolated incident." Balido,
whose organization works to expedite trade between the United States,
Mexico and Canada, said maquilas, or factories where U.S. companies
manufacture their products in Mexico, have not been targeted.
"That's not a widespread issue. Maquilas are not under attack or
under siege," he said.
Even so, security and its impact on transporting goods is a frequent
topics of discussion. In August, it was the theme of a conference in
Mexico City hosted in part by the Border Trade Alliance. Before that,
in March, representatives from about 12 U.S. companies met with
officials in Guadalajara to discuss ways to cut down on cargo theft.
At that meeting, the top law enforcement officer in the western state
of Jalisco said there were 432 incidents of cargo theft in the state
in 2011.
That's more than one per day, with most in the area around Guadalajara.
"And while many of the tractor-trailers and other vehicles hijacked
were recovered, less than half of their cargos were," a news release
from the U.S. Consulate General in Guadalajara says.
Thefts up 72% in 1 state
In another indication of the prevalence of theft, the Mexican
newspaper Reforma, using statistics from the National Public Security
System, reported a 72 percent increase in theft against cargo
carriers in the central state of Aguascalientes in the first half of
2012 compared with the same period the previous year.
Esther Rodriguez Silva, a project manager at Texas A&M's global
supply chain laboratory, said studies have shown that while companies
feel secure within their own facilities, they don't feel secure
outside them. There's a sense of fear traveling to and from a
company's site, and law enforcement doesn't provide much reassurance.
Major concerns for companies include the threat of extortion, crimes
against employees, invasion and hijacking.
To deter those threats, companies that move merchandise through
Mexico use GPS to track their products, conduct extensive background
checks on employees connected to the shipping process and use escorts
to monitor valuable loads, Toscano said.
They also carefully plan shipping routes to avoid dangerous areas.
The added security can get expensive, and, while many international
companies still find doing business in Mexico worthwhile, it means
consumers can end up paying more.
"When it's costing the shipper more to ship," Balido said, "someone
has to make up that cost."
Goods moving from Sonora into Arizona haven't been affected. Page D6
LOCAL ANGLE
Piracy and highway robbery haven't plagued companies that move goods
from Sonora into Arizona.
Most exporters in the Mexican state directly south of Arizona
manufacture components for the aerospace, automotive and medical
industries. Those products don't have much value on the black market,
said Eduardo Saavedra, executive vice president of business
development for The Offshore Group, which owns a massive industrial
park in Guaymas, about 300 miles south of Tucson.
Still, those looking to do business in Guaymas raise the issue, he said.
"It's always part of the conversation with a new customer," Saavedra
said. "It's always about costs and benefits, and security - of course
- comes up very quickly."
Usually a visit to Sonora allays any concerns businesses might have,
Saavedra said. Federal officers regularly patrol major highways
there. And, as it's one of Mexico's northern states, cargo doesn't
spend more than a day on roads there.
Dale Quinn is a freelance reporter based in Guadalajara. Contact him
at dalehq@gmail.com
Note: Not quite that new, but interesting read.
Hijacked cargo new threat for firms in Mexico
October 28, 2012 12:00 am •
Dale Quinn For The Arizona Daily Star(
http://azstarnet.com/business/local/hijacked-cargo-new-threat-for-
firms-in-mexico/article_47b246c4-df31-5997-a15e-72cd81448ee7.html
GUADALAJARA, Jalisco - International companies that move goods from
Mexico into the United States have beefed up security measures in
response to increasingly organized, well-armed highway robbers.
These hijackers know what they want, which trucks are carrying it and
how to sell stolen products on the black market. As a result, some
companies that carry valuable merchandise - such as computers and
electronics - have gone so far as to use armed guards to escort their
loads through areas known to be particularly precarious.
"These criminals are now considered organized crime and they are more
prepared than in years past," Juan Carlos Aceves, who helps companies
secure their cargo as it travels through Mexico, said in Spanish.
Aceves works for a food company with operations in Central America,
Canada and Mexico.
At times, these organizations infiltrate companies and bribe
employees, Aceves said. Some hijackers are so well-informed they know
when a tractor-trailer is going to leave a location and what route it
will take, which allows them to plan the robbery in advance, Aceves
said.
Companies are tight-lipped about their security processes. A
representative from the computer company Hewlett-Packard, which has
manufacturing operations in Mexico, said its policy does not allow
for any discussion about its security process. Intel, Flextronics and
Jabil, other high-tech companies with operations in Mexico, didn't
respond to requests for comment.
Safe - with precautions
Those who work with international companies in Mexico stressed that
moving merchandise through the country is safe when the proper
precautions are taken. But the topic is clearly on the minds of those
who do business in a country with a reputation that's been tarnished
by violent drug smuggling organizations.
In May, warehouses and vehicle lots of the Mexican snack maker
Sabritas, a subsidiary of U.S. food giant PepsiCo., were hit by a
series of firebomb attacks. News reports said the company's
operations in the Mexican states of Michoacán and Guanajuato had been
targeted for extortion by a drug cartel.
On Aug. 25, criminals set vehicles ablaze at major access points to
Guadalajara - the country's second-largest city - in brazen acts that
clogged traffic and alarmed residents. Drug-smuggling organizations
carry out these blockades, which locals call narcobloqueos, as
demonstrations of power when one of their leaders is captured or
killed. They are especially disconcerting for Guadalajara, as the
city, which has a cluster of high-tech manufacturing companies and is
often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of Mexico," had long been
considered immune from drug-trade violence.
The narcobloqueos do have an impact on the area's image and
demonstrate how important it is that companies use safety measures
and have insurance, said David Toscano, the general director of
SADESPE, a security consulting company in Guadalajara. But they also
show that the authorities are acting against those responsible for
much of the violence, said Toscano, who's also the chairman of the
American Chamber of Commerce's security committee in Guadalajara.
Maquilas not targeted
Nelson Balido, the president of the Border Trade Alliance, called the
attacks on the Sabritas factories an "isolated incident." Balido,
whose organization works to expedite trade between the United States,
Mexico and Canada, said maquilas, or factories where U.S. companies
manufacture their products in Mexico, have not been targeted.
"That's not a widespread issue. Maquilas are not under attack or
under siege," he said.
Even so, security and its impact on transporting goods is a frequent
topics of discussion. In August, it was the theme of a conference in
Mexico City hosted in part by the Border Trade Alliance. Before that,
in March, representatives from about 12 U.S. companies met with
officials in Guadalajara to discuss ways to cut down on cargo theft.
At that meeting, the top law enforcement officer in the western state
of Jalisco said there were 432 incidents of cargo theft in the state
in 2011.
That's more than one per day, with most in the area around Guadalajara.
"And while many of the tractor-trailers and other vehicles hijacked
were recovered, less than half of their cargos were," a news release
from the U.S. Consulate General in Guadalajara says.
Thefts up 72% in 1 state
In another indication of the prevalence of theft, the Mexican
newspaper Reforma, using statistics from the National Public Security
System, reported a 72 percent increase in theft against cargo
carriers in the central state of Aguascalientes in the first half of
2012 compared with the same period the previous year.
Esther Rodriguez Silva, a project manager at Texas A&M's global
supply chain laboratory, said studies have shown that while companies
feel secure within their own facilities, they don't feel secure
outside them. There's a sense of fear traveling to and from a
company's site, and law enforcement doesn't provide much reassurance.
Major concerns for companies include the threat of extortion, crimes
against employees, invasion and hijacking.
To deter those threats, companies that move merchandise through
Mexico use GPS to track their products, conduct extensive background
checks on employees connected to the shipping process and use escorts
to monitor valuable loads, Toscano said.
They also carefully plan shipping routes to avoid dangerous areas.
The added security can get expensive, and, while many international
companies still find doing business in Mexico worthwhile, it means
consumers can end up paying more.
"When it's costing the shipper more to ship," Balido said, "someone
has to make up that cost."
Goods moving from Sonora into Arizona haven't been affected. Page D6
LOCAL ANGLE
Piracy and highway robbery haven't plagued companies that move goods
from Sonora into Arizona.
Most exporters in the Mexican state directly south of Arizona
manufacture components for the aerospace, automotive and medical
industries. Those products don't have much value on the black market,
said Eduardo Saavedra, executive vice president of business
development for The Offshore Group, which owns a massive industrial
park in Guaymas, about 300 miles south of Tucson.
Still, those looking to do business in Guaymas raise the issue, he said.
"It's always part of the conversation with a new customer," Saavedra
said. "It's always about costs and benefits, and security - of course
- comes up very quickly."
Usually a visit to Sonora allays any concerns businesses might have,
Saavedra said. Federal officers regularly patrol major highways
there. And, as it's one of Mexico's northern states, cargo doesn't
spend more than a day on roads there.
Dale Quinn is a freelance reporter based in Guadalajara. Contact him
at dalehq@gmail.com
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