Overview of Criminal Organizations Targeting Transporters in Edomex
The State of Mexico (Edomex) has seen an alarming rise in criminal activities targeting transportation workers. Following a significant operation, authorities identified eight criminal groups involved in thefts against transporters, illustrating the organized nature of these criminal activities.
Key Criminal Organizations
During Operation Path, a strategic initiative aimed at curbing violence related to transportation theft, the following criminal groups were identified:
Los Tilicos and/or Saldívar
- Operations: Tlalnepantla, Tultitlán, Cuautitlán Izcalli
Pantera
- Operations: Tlalnepantla, Cuautitlán Izcalli
The Marmolejos
- Operations: Polotitlán, Jilotepec, Soyaniquilpan, Otumba
The Company
- Operations: Huehuetoca, Cuautitlán Izcalli
Toño Tennis
- Operations: Naucalpan, Atizapán de Zaragoza, Tlalnepantla, Cuautitlán Izcalli, Cuautitlán, Zumpango, Teoloyucan
Del Ángel Axel
- Operations: Chimalhuacán, La Paz, Nezahualcóyotl
Bam Bam
- Operations: Nopaltepec, Nextlalpan
The Kevin
- Operations: Ecatepec, Tecámac
These organizations are notorious for establishing various tactics in both urban and rural areas, effectively disrupting transportation routes essential for commerce in the region.
Operation Path Details
The State of Mexico’s law enforcement response involved a comprehensive deployment across 46 municipalities. Hernán Cortés Hernández, head of the National Guard, stated the operation focused on arresting members of these criminal groups and dismantling their infrastructures, which included warehouses and workshops used to conceal stolen vehicles.
In a recent operation, 68 arrests were made, with 24 individuals being sought through existing warrants. Additionally, law enforcement executed 63 searches and conducted 77 inspections, leading to the seizure of significant assets.
Criminal Activities and Impact
These criminal organizations engage in various illicit activities that severely impact public safety and economic stability. Notable crimes include:
- Violent theft of merchandise
- Express kidnappings
- Firearm offenses
- Attacks on communication routes
- Murders
Such activities not only threaten the lives of transportation workers but also disrupt the vital flow of goods and services in the region.
Seizures and Recovery
Operation Path yielded impressive results, including:
- Seizure of 178 transport vehicles
- A total of 61,294 boxes of assorted goods
- Various other assets including 29 unidentifiable tractor-trailer engines, 49 firearms, and substantial amounts of cash approximating 535,000 pesos in both national and foreign currency.
Conclusion
The emergence of these eight criminal groups in Edomex highlights the urgent need for continued law enforcement efforts in the region. The coordinated response developed through Operation Path marks a significant step toward restoring safety and order along critical transportation routes in Mexico. Addressing the root causes of these organized crimes will be crucial in preventing further disruptions to public safety and commerce.