**Homicides Increase by 41% in Baja California Sur**
In the last few months, Baja California Sur has witnessed a dramatic surge in homicides, increasing by 41.66% from the previous year. This escalation is marked by a series of violent incidents that have put the local community on high alert. The most recent case involves the killing of Rodolfo Canchola Tinoco, a former municipal police officer from Comondú, who was brutally executed in broad daylight on August 19 in Ciudad Constitución.
The event occurred around 11 a.m. near the former Comondú Municipal Police headquarters. Tinoco, who was merely two blocks away from his home, was approached by a group of armed men. After a brief exchange, the assailants reportedly forced him to kneel and shot him in the head.
Eyewitnesses described the victim as a robust man with light brown skin, wearing navy blue shorts and no shirt. Authorities responded to the emergency call and found Tinoco lying face down with a gunshot wound to his forehead.
Daniel de la Rosa Anaya, the Attorney General of the State, confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway. Several pieces of evidence have been gathered, and significant progress has been made in solving this case.
The death of another ex-police officer, José Antonio Ojeda Talamantes, further adds to the growing list of violent crimes. Found on a dirt road leading to a landfill in Ciudad Constitución, his demise was initially surrounded by suspicion but later confirmed as a suicide by state authorities based on evidence provided by his brother.
The surge in homicides is not just isolated to these incidents. Baja California Sur has seen an alarming number of clandestine grave discoveries, with 18 bodies found in La Paz and 13 in Los Cabos between May and August. Despite these grim statistics, state authorities report that they have achieved an 80% success rate in clearing murder cases.
**Recent Developments**
In response to the increase in violent crimes, the state has intensified security operations and established strategic checkpoints. On August 31, State Police forces captured three individuals in Miraflores, Los Cabos, harboring military-grade weapons.
The suspects, identified as Nelson “C”, Jorge “A”, and Miguel “C”, were found with an extensive arsenal, including long guns, grenades, and significant amounts of ammunition. In addition, they were carrying 53,500 pesos in cash. The suspects have been handed over to the Federal Public Ministry, and further investigations are expected.
State officials are also preparing for potential repercussions from recent events in Sinaloa, such as the arrest of Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada, which could disrupt local criminal networks. Increased movement of arms among local criminal groups indicates a possible shift in control or retaliation.
Authorities continue to bolster their efforts to maintain security, and the establishment of new checkpoints aims to deter criminal activities and prevent further violence in the state.
**Related News**
**28 Boats Sunk Since Hurricane Norma**
The region’s maritime infrastructure has also been strained, with 28 boats reportedly submerged following the devastation brought by Hurricane Norma. Recovery and repair efforts are ongoing, further stretching local resources already coping with escalating crime rates.
**Judicial Reforms Passed Rapidly**
In a recent session, the BCS Congress swiftly passed judicial reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of the legal system. These changes are part of a broader initiative to strengthen law enforcement and judicial processes in response to the rising crime rates.
**Hepatitis A Cases Double**
Public health officials report a doubling of Hepatitis A cases compared to the previous year. Los Cabos has been identified as a red zone, prompting increased health surveillance and interventions.
The government and security services are committed to addressing these challenges head-on, working to bring stability and safety back to Baja California Sur.
Stay updated with the latest developments from TJGringo.com.