The growing dispute between organized crime groups in the coastal region of Michoacán has caused the forced displacement of at least 80 families from communities in the municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas, who left behind their homes, crops and economic activities to protect their integrity.
According to residents and community representatives who gave their testimony to the La Silla Rota site, the presence of armed groups, clashes and threats against the population generated a climate of fear that forced dozens of people to leave their towns in search of refuge with relatives or in other municipalities.
Affected families reported that violence has intensified in recent weeks, limiting their daily activities and making access to basic services difficult.
In some cases, they indicated that they remained confined to their homes for several days before deciding to leave the area.
The residents say that the shooting clashes between antagonistic organized crime cells have intensified in that area of the entity, for control of the municipality.
The sources consulted by La Silla Rota report that violence increased three weeks ago, with the emergence of a criminal cell known as “Los Bandolones”, supported by criminal leader Fernando Cruz Mendoza, alias “El Tena”.
On the other side are the brothers Javier Jacobo Álvarez, alias “El Javi”; Alejandro Jacobo Álvarez, alias “El Jando” and Adalberto Jacobo Álvarez, alias “El Yiyo”.
The displacement occurs in a region considered strategic for different criminal groups due to its location and the routes that connect with the port of Lázaro Cárdenas, one of the main logistics complexes in the country.
So far, authorities have not reported the official number of displaced people nor have they detailed a specific plan to care for affected families.
Meanwhile, residents maintain the expectation that there will be safe conditions to return to their communities without putting their lives at risk.
