**Three Drug Cartel Banners Discovered in Mexicali; One Targets Senior Security Officials**
Three cartel banners, known as “narcomantas,” were discovered in Mexicali on the morning of March 26. These banners sent shockwaves through the community, with one specifically directed at senior figures within the State Citizens Security Force (FESC).
The first banner was found draped over a pedestrian bridge on Lázaro Cárdenas Boulevard at the intersection with Ninth Street in eastern Mexicali. The message was unmistakably aimed at the director and deputy director of intelligence of the FESC, as well as the deputy director of the same state agency.
The chilling message accused certain officials of receiving illicit payments and other arrangements, while ominously warning them to fulfill their obligations or face consequences. Furthermore, they were blamed for the ongoing violence in Mexicali and surrounding areas like the valley and San Felipe.
Mexicali’s municipal president, Norma Bustamante Martínez, confirmed the discoveries. However, when it came to the other two banners, she stated that the General Prosecutor’s Office of Baja California is already involved, and the matter will be addressed in a security meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 27. The sensitive nature of the investigation means Bustamante has been advised not to disclose further details.
Interestingly, this disturbing incident follows a recent wave of similar threats in the city. On March 21, four narcomantas were placed around Mexicali, targeting the newly appointed Municipal Police Director Julián Leyzaola. Despite the threatening nature of these messages, Leyzaola dismissed them as mere noise, stating they were typical of the intimidation faced in his line of duty.
**Further Developments in Baja California’s Security Challenges**
In a related incident, yet another narcomanta was found at a technical secondary school in Ensenada on March 26th. The authorities have been tight-lipped regarding the content of this latest banner. Nevertheless, it’s become apparent that drug-related violence and threats are a growing concern across various parts of Baja California.
Additionally, there was a reported fire at a recycling plant in Tijuana, raising suspicions of arson. This incident adds another layer of complexity to the already strained resources of Baja California’s law enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, security measures across the region are expected to be significantly bolstered as similar activities spread concerns throughout the state. The regional security forces have emphasized their commitment to providing safety and maintaining order amidst these challenges.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for further updates on these stories as the situation develops.