NCJ Number
236103
Journal
Journal of Gang Research Volume: 18 Issue: 4 Dated: Summer 2011 Pages: 19-45
Date Published
2011
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the current narco-conflict in Mexico for causes, trends, and possible solutions.
Abstract
This is a full-scale drug war raging in Mexico for the past few years. The acts of narcoterrorism caused by the Mexican Drug Trafficking Organizations have cost thousands of lives in what has degenerated into an armed insurrection in many parts of Mexico. Political officials, police, and innocent people have been assassinated or caught in the crossfire as the Mexican DTOs battle for drug turf in an increasingly fierce battle to see who will control the drug manufacturing, drug trafficking, and human trafficking trades in Mexico. Alliances have been formed with gangs in the United States. Mexican President Felipe Calderon has committed thousands of troops from the Mexican Army to join the counter-narcotics operations of the Mexican law enforcement forces. Recent incursions into the United States by Mexican DTOs have increased concerns by law enforcement officials. (Published Abstract)