### Soldiers Respect Human Rights, Claims SEDENA Chief Amid Extrajudicial Execution Allegations in Culiacán
In response to allegations of attempted extrajudicial execution by military personnel in Culiacán, Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, the head of the Mexican Ministry of National Defense (SEDENA), has firmly rejected claims of systematic human rights violations by the Army. Speaking at a morning press conference, Trevilla emphasized that military personnel is trained to uphold human rights even during public security operations.
The controversy arose following a report from October 24, 2024, which alleged that a man named “Alexis” was wrongfully detained and shot by the military on suspicion of harboring criminals. The situation de-escalated when a security camera recorded the incident and the civilian, later proven innocent, was released due to lack of evidence.
Trevilla assured that the military and civil authorities are investigating the incident, reiterating that the Army is committed to human rights, often providing first aid to wounded individuals. Meanwhile, Alejandro Gertz Manero, head of the Federal Prosecutor’s Office, confirmed that investigations are undertaken in all cases involving military-civilian confrontations.
In related events, President Claudia Sheinbaum defended the Armed Forces’ actions in a separate confrontation that resulted in 19 deaths during the capture of cartel operator Edwin Antonio Rubio López, AKA “El Oso,” in Sinaloa. She maintained that the soldiers acted within legal boundaries while under attack, and emphasized her administration’s policy of avoiding unnecessary confrontations, advocating for a strategy focused on intelligence and legal procedures rather than violence.
### Secondary Article: Concerns Over Security Operations Persist as Sinaloa Incident Highlights Military Measures
The recent military operation in Culiacán has sparked discussions on the integrity of security measures and the protection of human rights amidst Mexico’s war on organized crime. In the wake of 19 fatalities during the arrest of a Sinaloa Cartel operative, the operation underscored the continuing challenges faced by Mexican authorities in curbing cartel activities while ensuring compliance with legal standards.
SEDENA confirmed the deaths as a result of an aggressive confrontation initiated by over 30 armed individuals during the Mexican Army’s attempt to arrest “El Max.” The ensuing violence led to significant casualties among the aggressors while also raising questions about the balance between law enforcement actions and civilian safety.
The incident, which saw the seizure of a notable cache of arms and arrest of the suspect, highlighted the ongoing struggle between cartel forces and state efforts to reassert legal authority across affected regions. Despite assurances from military leaders and President Sheinbaum about operational legality, human rights organizations continue to call for transparency and accountability to prevent any potential misuse of military power.
As Mexico navigates its complex security landscape, the need for comprehensive strategies that marry effective enforcement with civilian protection remains a critical focal point for both government policymakers and advocacy groups.