Maru Campos convenes with Omar García Harfuch, consolidating measures to intensify efforts against criminal organizations
In a recent meeting, the Governor of Chihuahua, Maru Campos, and the Secretary of Public Security, Gilberto Loya, were joined by the Attorney General of the state, César Jáuregui, and the head of the Ministry of Public Security of the Mexican Government, Omar García Harfuch. The main focus of the discussion was organized crime, as both state and federal authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring peace and security for Chihuahuan families.
The officials agreed to form a task force to strengthen security measures, with a focus on apprehending the main perpetrators of violence in Chihuahua. This decision comes in response to a troubling rise in kidnappings in Ciudad Juárez, where criminal groups appear to be youth-led cells increasingly targeting local civilians rather than following traditional cartel commands.
Local police have been actively detaining perpetrators involved in these violent kidnappings, many of whom are young and operate in small, less-organized groups not directly tied to major cartels. These arrests are occurring quickly to prevent gang longevity.
In addition to local law enforcement efforts, the Mexican Army and security forces have been seizing mobile clandestine drug laboratories in Chihuahua and other states, reflecting a push to disrupt methamphetamine production and trafficking.
While not specific only to Chihuahua, the Mexican government under President Claudia Sheinbaum since late 2024 has intensified efforts against organized crime, including closing down drug labs and increasing military involvement. However, growing state surveillance powers and expanded military authority for public security raise concerns among human rights groups about potential abuses.
Encouraging signs of progress have been reported in Chihuahua. According to a previous report, homicides have decreased by 25% in 10 months. This decrease, coupled with the ongoing arrests and lab seizures, indicates active law enforcement efforts at local and national levels to curb organized crime’s impact in the state.
To further combat crime, the officials also decided to coordinate operations and establish new lines of action for swift information exchange. They will apply localized strategies in regions with the highest incidence of crime, demonstrating a commitment to tailoring their responses to the unique challenges faced by different areas within Chihuahua.
The formation of this task force and the commitment of state and federal officials to combat organized crime in Chihuahua marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and security of the region's residents.
The task force formed by state and federal officials will focus on strengthening policy-and-legislation and politics regarding crime-and-justice in Chihuahua, following the rise in kidnappings and violent activities. This move aligns with the Mexican government's general-news commitment to intensify efforts against organized crime across the nation.
