Vehicles Set Ablaze, Roadblocks Erected in Mexico After Arrest of Suspected Jalisco Cartel Members

The state of Aguascalientes, located in central Mexico, experienced a series of violent disturbances over the past days, including roadblocks and the burning of vehicles and stores, after authorities arrested 18 suspected members of the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) and dismantled what they described as a clandestine criminal camp.

The incident took place in the municipality of Rincón de Romos, less than 25 miles north of the state capital. Individuals linked to the cartel set fire to vehicles and convenience stores and allegedly carried out two killings in apparent retaliation for the operation from law enforcement.

In addition to dismantling the camp, authorities seized 20 firearms of various calibers, 28 bulletproof vests, tactical gear, armored vehicles, ammunition, and one kilogram of suspected cocaine.

Following the arrests, images circulated on social media showing semi-trailer trucks set on fire at several locations in the area, Infobae México reported. Several convenience stores were also set ablaze using Molotov cocktails and gasoline.

Authorities confirmed two killings in the border area between the municipalities of Pabellón de Arteaga and Tepezalá. The bodies showed signs of burning and were attributed to the same group as part of its violent response to the July 26 operation.

On Monday, José Antonio Arámbula, Aguascalientes' Secretary of State, told journalist Carmen Aristegui that in addition to the initial 18 arrests, nine other individuals were detained in connection with the acts of violence that followed, including arson and roadblocks.

Arámbula confirmed that seven convenience stores, a passenger bus, and six vehicles were set on fire. He added that roadblocks had been reported on at least six major roadways.

Just days before the unrest, narcomantas — banners attributed to organized crime — were displayed across several locations in Aguascalientes. The banners announced a supposed new alliance between the CJNG and other criminal groups, including the Sinaloa Cartel and Cárteles Unidos.

Aguascalientes is considered a strategic location for organized crime due to its proximity to the neighboring states of Zacatecas and Jalisco, both known drug trafficking corridors. Infobae México detailed that the Jalisco Cartel established a presence in Aguascalientes in February 2023 and has since expanded its operations in the area.

"This message is for all the people of Aguascalientes. Cárteles Unidos and 30 are now part of the CJNG. To traitors, thieves, extortionists, and kidnappers — there will be no truce for you. Unity is strength," one of the banners read.