Mexico: Security forces kill 13 suspected criminals in operation in Rayon Municipality, San Luis Potosi State, late Aug. 4

Event

Security forces carried out an anti-crime operation in San Luis Potosi State late Aug. 4. Officials were investigating a suspected organized criminal group in Vaqueros, Rayon Municipality, when gunmen started shooting at them, leading to an exchange of gunfire that killed 13 suspects. Two suspects were also arrested during the operation. Security forces were looking for a high-ranking civil guard leader who was kidnapped Aug. 3 in Tamasopo along with his wife; reports indicate that the mission recovered the bodies of both from the suspects. Operations appear to be complete in the area.

Vaqueros, Rayon Municipality, is approximately 136 km (84 miles) east-southeast of San Luis Potosi.

Context

Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTO's) in Mexico carry out numerous shootings mainly targeting government security forces and rival criminal groups. San Luis Potosi State is amongst the regions affected by this violence. On several occasions in June and July, authorities discovered a number of bodies dumped on roads near Tamasopo, a popular tourist region, with DTO slogans written on their bodies, apparently a result of conflict between criminal organizations. Criminal activity can affect both locals and foreigners. Involvement in criminal activity, including the purchase of drugs, increases the risk of violence.