Jalisco Cartel Publicly Threatens Baja California Governor Over Extortion Allegations

Two narcomantas — large banners or signs bearing messages from drug cartels — attributed to the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) were displayed in Ensenada, Baja California, during the weekend targeting state governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda with accusations of tolerating extortion in the fishing sector.

In both banners, Ávila Olmeda is accused of allegedly allowing extortion against the fishing sector and its workers. It specifically names Arturo Alejandro Hernández Medina, better known as "El Tury," who is said to be linked to "Los Aquiles" of the Sinaloa Cartel. The messages also addressed Vice Admiral Daniel Escobedo of the Mexican Navy's Second Naval Region, urging him to intervene if the governor does not take action.

The full message on the banners reads:

"Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda. We are not surprised that you turn your back on the people of Ensenada. Since you came to power, you have allowed Arturo Alejandro Hernández Medina, alias 'El Tury,' to extort the entire fishing sector of this municipality. This filthy man, supported by the scum of 'Los Aquiles' of the CDS, has been causing irreparable harm to families and to the economy of this state. Vice Admiral Daniel Escobedo Escobedo, if the influencer governor does not take action on this matter, then do so yourself or blood will continue to be shed. Sincerely, 646 CJNG"

According to Infobae México, the first banner was located around 6:12 a.m. at the main traffic node near the Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), positioned on the city's welcome sign. The second was found later on the Transpeninsular highway.

So far, Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda has not issued any statement. Local news site Uno TV point out that in August 2024 the governor was also named in three narcomantas in less than 15 days, which additionally accused senior officials of the State Attorney General's Office and the Citizen Security Secretariat.