## Surge in Murders by the Sinaloa Cartel in Baja California
In recent weeks, Baja California has seen a significant uptick in homicides attributed to the Sinaloa Cartel (CDS). A member of the Baja California Coordination for Peace and Security reported that, this month, there has been a shift in the criminal dynamics, targeting individuals within rival factions and not just in open drug sales. The victims, although not leaders, have had mid-level roles with responsibilities in logistics or strategy.
The rise in killings has been accompanied by a show of power with public displays, including banners designed to intimidate and demonstrate dominance. These messages were withheld from the public to prevent further empowerment of the criminal groups. Additionally, murders have been committed in broad daylight in high-traffic areas, causing disruptions and drawing more public attention to these violent acts.
Key areas impacted by this violence include Santa Fe and Zone Centro, where the municipal police and the Office of the Special Prosecutor for Drug Trafficking have recently conducted numerous raids to arrest criminals and reduce the homicide rate, albeit with limited success so far.
Recent investigations reveal that the violence is fueled by an ongoing campaign initiated in May 2023 by Alfonso and René Arzate, members of the faction loyal to Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada of the Sinaloa Cartel. They have been instructed to eliminate all members of the rival Arellano Félix Cartel (CAF).
On August 20, Rosa Icela Rodríguez, head of the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC), indicated that six states, including Baja California, account for 44.4% of the homicides recorded in the first seven months of 2024 in Mexico.
The Baja California Attorney General’s Office reported that as of August 21, the state had recorded 1,598 homicide victims for the year, exceeding the numbers released by the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security System by 30.
### Attack on Currency Exchanger
On the night of August 15, Néstor Castañeda, 41, survived an assassination attempt in Santa Fe. Two motorcyclists blocked his path and fired at his vehicle. He managed to escape and headed to Hospital del Carmen with a gunshot wound in his arm.
A few days later, on August 19, another attempt on his life was made while he was en route to the Attorney General’s Office accompanied by his wife and a bodyguard. The attackers unleashed a barrage of bullets at a traffic light, injuring Castañeda and his bodyguard. Thanks to a quick police response, two suspects were arrested shortly after.
### Ongoing Violence and Security Responses
Authorities have identified the suspects as part of a criminal faction linked to the Arzate brothers and operating in neighborhoods like Alamar, Murúa, and Las Torres. This group was also implicated in previous violent acts, including the murder of an investigation agency officer last November.
The violence has also affected other individuals, with several cases of shootings in public areas, leading to increased calls for stronger security measures. The police continue to face challenges in effectively containing the escalating violence in the state.
### Recent Developments
**Murder Increases in Tijuana:**
The surge in homicide rates in Tijuana is alarming. Investigations continue, but authorities have noted that efforts to disrupt the activities of drug trafficking groups remain a priority.
**Attack on Police and Bystanders:**
Several recent attacks have mirrored the tactics of the CDS, including the use of motorcycles and coordinated vehicle attacks. Notable incidents involve the shooting of Sergio Quiroz Villa and an attack that left Francisco Javier Romero dead.
**Community Response:**
The community is deeply affected by the violence, with many residents calling for enhanced security and better protection from the ongoing threat posed by criminal organizations.
### Secondary Update: Arrests and Further Investigation
Recent developments in the struggle against organized crime in Tijuana reveal that two men, Jonathan Daniel de la Cruz Ochoa and José Ángel Sánchez Vázquez, were arrested for their involvement in a series of violent crimes linked to the Sinaloa Cartel. During their capture, authorities seized two weapons, a Glock .40 caliber, and a 5.56 caliber rifle, alongside a Ford Edge used in the violent attempts.
Investigations also uncovered a network of criminal activities involving currency exchanges with suspected ties to organized crime. Despite efforts to protect key witnesses and informants, the violence continues unabated, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current security strategies.
The rise in targeted, high-profile attacks signifies a dangerous trend in criminal tactics. Law enforcement agencies are called to adapt and respond swiftly to curb the influence of rival cartels and restore peace in the affected areas.
For further coverage and updates, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.