The United States is expanding its campaign against drug cartels across Latin America as Colombia joins the U.S.-led Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Colombia has authorised joint military operations targeting terrorist organisations and narco-terror networks.

Hegseth also signalled a more aggressive approach to cartel networks, comparing the planned campaign with tactics used against ISIS and al-Qaeda. The latest move could significantly deepen military and intelligence cooperation between Washington and Bogotá.

U.S. Leads New Anti-Cartel Bloc, as Hegseth Vows 'ISIS-Style' Ops Against Cartels

The United States has designated Mexico’s Juarez Cartel and Los Alegres group as foreign terrorist organizations, marking a major escalation in Washington’s fight against drug cartels. The US State Department said the groups were involved in attacks affecting American citizens and interests, including a 2019 attack that killed nine members of the Mormon community in Mexico.

US designates Mexican cartels as terror groups in major drug war escalation

Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the powerful and long-pursued head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and one of the world’s most-wanted traffickers, died following a Mexican military operation on Sunday, handing the country a consequential victory as it looks to show tangible results to the Trump administration.


Drug Lord El Mencho's Death Triggers Code Red in Mexico

President Donald Trump has intensified U.S. efforts against major drug cartels. Authorities highlight increased pressure on trafficking networks as part of ongoing national security and law enforcement initiatives. Stay updated on the latest developments in the U.S. anti-drug operations.

Trump Escalates War on Drug Cartels Amid Rising US Anti-Drug Operations

<p>Pablo Escobar’s name is synonymous with cocaine smuggling, violence, and unimaginable wealth. At the height of his power in the 1980s, the Medellín Cartel controlled nearly 80 per cent of the global cocaine trade. Escobar was earning more than $400 million every week, but beyond his empire of crime, he was also known for his bizarre sense of humour.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One of the strangest stories to emerge from Escobar’s reign involves Coca-Cola<strong>, </strong>a drink seen as the ultimate symbol of American consumer culture. Escobar allegedly smuggled cocaine inside Coca-Cola bottles, not just as a clever trafficking trick, but because he found the idea funny.</p><h3>Coca-Cola: The Perfect Disguise</h3><p>At a time when authorities were desperate to intercept Escobar’s shipments, the cartel turned everyday products into carriers for cocaine. Coca-Cola was an ideal choice because bottles moved freely across borders without raising suspicion. Cartel chemists dissolved cocaine into liquid concentrate, resealed the bottles, and shipped them across the world. To customs officers, they looked like ordinary fizzy drinks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Escobar, the Coca-Cola stunt was more than just business. It was a mockery of the United States and its most recognisable brand. Smuggling cocaine inside Coke was his way of laughing at the same country that consumed the majority of his product while waging a “war on drugs.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This was only one of Escobar’s many creative smuggling methods. His cartel used submarines, planes with hidden compartments, and even zoo animals to move cocaine internationally. Over time, traffickers around the world copied these ideas, hiding drugs in bananas, coffee, pineapples, and even breast implants.</p><h3>A Legacy of Crime and Absurdity</h3><p>Escobar was killed in 1993, but tales like the Coca-Cola operation continue to capture global fascination. It shows how his empire was built not only on fear and money, but also on outrageous stunts that blurred the line between genius, cruelty, and absurd entertainment.</p><p>Even</p>

At his peak, Pablo Escobar smuggled cocaine in Coca-Cola bottles, not for money, but because he thought it was funny. 

Pablo Escobar’s name is synonymous with cocaine smuggling, violence, and unimaginable wealth. At the height of his power in the 1980s, the Medellín Cartel controlled nearly 80 per cent of the global cocaine trade. Escobar was earning more than $400 million every week, but beyond his empire of crime, he was also known for his bizarre sense of humour. One of the strangest stories to emerge from Escobar’s reign involves Coca-Cola, a drink seen as the ultimate symbol of American consumer culture. Escobar allegedly smuggled cocaine inside Coca-Cola bottles, not just as a clever trafficking trick, but because he found the idea funny. Coca-Cola: The Perfect Disguise At a time when authorities were desperate to intercept Escobar’s shipments, the cartel turned everyday products into carriers for cocaine. Coca-Cola was an ideal choice because bottles moved freely across borders without raising suspicion. Cartel chemists dissolved cocaine into liquid concentrate, resealed the bottles, and shipped them across the world. To customs officers, they looked like ordinary fizzy drinks. For Escobar, the Coca-Cola stunt was more than just business. It was a mockery of the United States and its most recognisable brand. Smuggling cocaine inside Coke was his way of laughing at the same country that consumed the majority of his product while waging a “war on drugs.” This was only one of Escobar’s many creative smuggling methods. His cartel used submarines, planes with hidden compartments, and even zoo animals to move cocaine internationally. Over time, traffickers around the world copied these ideas, hiding drugs in bananas, coffee, pineapples, and even breast implants. A Legacy of Crime and Absurdity Escobar was killed in 1993, but tales like the Coca-Cola operation continue to capture global fascination. It shows how his empire was built not only on fear and money, but also on outrageous stunts that blurred the line between genius, cruelty, and absurd entertainment. Even

<p>At his peak, Pablo Escobar smuggled cocaine in Coca-Cola bottles, not for money, but because he thought it was funny.&nbsp;</p>

'Cocaine in Coca-Cola': How Pablo Escobar once used smuggling to mock the United States

Sicarios are hired killers for Latin American drug cartels. From lead assassins to scouts and enforcers, they play key roles in cartel violence. Often recruited young, their lives revolve around crime, survival, and the brutal world of organized crime.

Who are Sicarios? The 5 deadly roles within cartel hit squads

Ecuador has intensified its crackdown on drug cartels as violent clashes in Guayaquil leave at least 22 people dead. Police and military forces have launched multiple raids, seizing weapons and arresting suspects. Armed forces continue operations in mountainous regions, while the president offers pardons to security personnel. Stay tuned for updates on Ecuador’s battle against organized crime.

Ecuador cracks down on drug cartels amid deadly violence

<p>The violence in President&nbsp;Andrés Manuel López Obrador's Mexico continues unabated. The latest incident occurred in Maravatio where two candidates who were standing for the position of&nbsp;mayor were shot dead within hours of each other ahead of the June 2 elections.</p>

<p>The drug cartels have been tightening their grip on the South American country with violence particularly escalating in the run-up to the elections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mexico elections, mayor candidates shot dead: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Armando Pérez, the mayoral candidate for the conservative National Action Party, was&nbsp;shot dead in his car in Maravatio just before midnight, state prosecutors announced on Tuesday (Feb 27). Pérez's killing came even before the formal commencement of election campaigns.</p>

<p>The election campaigns are scheduled to begin later this week on&nbsp;Friday (Mar 1).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Mexico Elections: Violence hits record peak</strong></p>

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<p>Marko Cortés, the leader of the National Action Party, took to social media and said, "This illustrates the extremely serious level of violence and lack of safety that prevails ahead of the most important elections in Mexican history."</p>

<p>The ruling Morena party also faced a devastating blow, with their candidate, Miguel Ángel Zavala, found shot to death in his car a day earlier.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-26-killed-in-tractor-trailer-van-crash-in-northern-mexico-592444">At least 26 killed as tractor trailer and van collide in northern Mexico</a></strong></p>

<p>While Morena officials denounced the act as "cowardly and reprehensible," Juan Pablo Celis, head of Morena in Michoacan, clarified that Zavala had expressed his intention to run but had not yet been officially designated as the party’s candidate.</p>

<h2><strong>Drug cartel violence flashpoint in Mexico</strong></h2>

<p>Michoacan, a western state grappling with intense gang turf wars, particularly between the Jalisco New Generation cartel and the local Viagras gang, stands as a poignant example of the escalating violence.</p>

<p>Civic Data, a watchdog group in a January report on political violence, said: "2023 was the most violent year in our database. And everything suggests that 2024 will be worse."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mexico conducts its mayoral, state, and federal elections all at once.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For cartels, extorting protection payments from local businesses and governments remains&nbsp;a lucrative revenue stream.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The violence in President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's Mexico continues unabated. The latest incident occurred in Maravatio where two candidates who were standing for the position of mayor were shot dead within hours of each other ahead of the June 2 elections.

The violence in President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's Mexico continues unabated. The latest incident occurred in Maravatio where two candidates who were standing for the position of mayor were shot dead within hours of each other ahead of the June 2 elections. The drug cartels have been tightening their grip on the South American country with violence particularly escalating in the run-up to the elections. Mexico elections, mayor candidates shot dead: What happened? Armando Pérez, the mayoral candidate for the conservative National Action Party, was shot dead in his car in Maravatio just before midnight, state prosecutors announced on Tuesday (Feb 27). Pérez's killing came even before the formal commencement of election campaigns. The election campaigns are scheduled to begin later this week on Friday (Mar 1). Also watch | Mexico Elections: Violence hits record peak × Marko Cortés, the leader of the National Action Party, took to social media and said, "This illustrates the extremely serious level of violence and lack of safety that prevails ahead of the most important elections in Mexican history." The ruling Morena party also faced a devastating blow, with their candidate, Miguel Ángel Zavala, found shot to death in his car a day earlier. Also read | At least 26 killed as tractor trailer and van collide in northern Mexico While Morena officials denounced the act as "cowardly and reprehensible," Juan Pablo Celis, head of Morena in Michoacan, clarified that Zavala had expressed his intention to run but had not yet been officially designated as the party’s candidate. Drug cartel violence flashpoint in Mexico Michoacan, a western state grappling with intense gang turf wars, particularly between the Jalisco New Generation cartel and the local Viagras gang, stands as a poignant example of the escalating violence. Civic Data, a watchdog group in a January report on political violence, said: "2023 was the most violent year in our database. And everything suggests that 2024 will be worse." Mexico conducts its mayoral, state, and federal elections all at once. For cartels, extorting protection payments from local businesses and governments remains a lucrative revenue stream. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico: Mayoral candidates gunned down as drug cartels vie influence ahead of June elections

Dozens of armed men stormed a TV broadcast in Ecuador just a day after President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day National Emergency. The Ecuadorian President has ordered that all the criminal gangs involved in the attack be neutralized after the country exploded into what he called an internal armed conflict.

Ecuador on edge, enters third day of Cartel Terror Campaign | Waves of arrests start | WION

<p>Ecuador is grappling with a severe security crisis as it mourns the tragic killing of presidential hopeful&nbsp;Fernando Villavicencio, merely days before the upcoming elections. This incident is a reminder&nbsp;of&nbsp;the escalating security concerns that have plagued not only Ecuador but also much of South America.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened with presidential hopeful&nbsp;Fernando Villavicencio?</strong></h2>

<p>Fernando Villavicencio, a prominent Ecuadorian presidential hopeful, was tragically shot and killed while leaving a campaign event in the capital city of Quito on August 9. The incident occurred just days before a crucial election that has been dominated by concerns over rising violence and crime plaguing the nation.</p>

<p>Fernando Villavicencio, known for his past collaboration with international media outlets like The Guardian, was a fervent advocate against the alleged links between organised crime and political circles.</p>

<p>Disturbing videos circulating on social media depict the harrowing moment when Villavicencio, surrounded by supporters and accompanied by security personnel, was ambushed by gunfire. Chaos ensued as people screamed and took cover, capturing the horrifying reality of the attack.</p>

<p>In a televised address delivered after midnight, President Guillermo Lasso affirmed that despite this tragic event, the upcoming elections would proceed as planned. However, a two-month state of emergency was declared, with soldiers assigned to guard polling stations to ensure the safety of the electoral process.</p>

<p>A suspect involved in the assassination attempt died from injuries sustained during a subsequent shootout, as confirmed by the attorney general's office. Additionally, six people&nbsp;were arrested&nbsp;in connection with the assassination.</p>

<p>The assassination occurred against the backdrop of a concerning surge in violent crime across Ecuador. Drug-trafficking gangs have been responsible for prison massacres, contributing to a doubling of murder rates between 2020 and 2022. President Lasso firmly stated, "Organised crime has gone too far but they will feel the full weight of the law."</p>

<p>Fernando Villavicencio, aged 59, was one of eight candidates vying for the presidency in the upcoming elections, scheduled for August 20. A significant portion of the Ecuadorian population expressed their top concern as addressing the nation's pervasive insecurity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-poll-running-mate-of-slain-candidate-fernando-villavicencio-to-run-for-president-624953">Ecuador poll: Running mate of slain candidate Fernando Villavicencio to run for president</a></p>

<h2><strong>Unravelling security in Ecuador: Pandemic impact and prison violence</strong></h2>

<p>In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ecuador has witnessed a troubling decline in security. Starting in late 2020, violence erupted within the country's prisons, leading to deadly riots resulting in hundreds of inmate fatalities.</p>

<p>Exploiting the weak control within prisons, gangs operating inside have expanded their dominion, endangering the lives of incarcerated individuals. This deterioration within correctional facilities is mirrored outside, with a staggering surge in murders.</p>

<p>Ecuador's homicide rate has soared by almost 500 per cent since 2016, reaching an estimated 22 murders per 100,000 people in 2022, as reported by Verisk Maplecroft.</p>

<h2><strong>The proliferation of violence: Underlying causes</strong></h2>

<p>The current conservative administration, led by President Guillermo Lasso, attributes much of the violence to drug trafficking gangs.</p>

<p>Lasso, who accelerated presidential elections to avoid impeachment, has consistently placed blame on these criminal organisations, even in the context of prison violence.</p>

<p>According to the government, Villavicencio's assassination was orchestrated by foreign nationals linked to drug cartels.</p>

<p>Verisk Maplecroft, a global risk intelligence company, also attributes the surge in criminality to the expansion of transnational drug-trafficking groups and violent street gangs.</p>

<h2><strong>Infiltration of drug trade and regional implications</strong></h2>

<p>Ecuador, historically known as the world's leading banana exporter, had managed to avoid the rampant violence that engulfed its northern neighbour, Colombia.</p>

<p>However, a lack of law enforcement attention has allowed drug gangs to infiltrate the nation. Cocaine trafficking organisations often conceal their illicit cargo within banana shipments bound for Europe, where demand for the drug is soaring.</p>

<p>Ecuador is not alone in facing these challenges; countries like Paraguay, a significant hub for global cocaine trade, have also suffered from drug-related violence. Surprisingly peaceful nations like Chile and Uruguay have not remained immune.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ecuador Presidential Candidate Assassination: One suspect dead, six arrested</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ecuador-presidential-candidate-assassination-one-suspect-dead-six-arrested-624776/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Government's response</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the escalating violence, President Lasso has implemented states of emergency on multiple occasions. These measures involve increased military presence on the streets and nightly curfews. Additionally, Lasso authorised civilians to use firearms in the fight against rising insecurity. Citizens have turned to gun ranges to enhance their self-defence capabilities and protect themselves in an increasingly perilous environment.</p>

<h2><strong>Historical precedents: Political violence in Latin America</strong></h2>

<p>The killing&nbsp;of Villavicencio draws parallels with past instances of political violence across Latin America. The analysts at Verisk Maplecroft highlight similarities to the 1984 assassination of Mexican presidential candidate Luis Donaldo Colosio and the 1989 killing of Colombia's Liberal party candidate Luis Carlos Galan.</p>

<p>Recent incidents, including an assassination attempt against Argentine politician Cristina Fernandez De Kirchner and the stabbing of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, further underscore the recurring nature of political violence in the region.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Ecuador is grappling with a severe security crisis as it mourns the tragic killing of presidential hopeful Fernando Villavicencio, merely days before the upcoming elections.

Ecuador is grappling with a severe security crisis as it mourns the tragic killing of presidential hopeful Fernando Villavicencio, merely days before the upcoming elections. This incident is a reminder of the escalating security concerns that have plagued not only Ecuador but also much of South America. What happened with presidential hopeful Fernando Villavicencio? Fernando Villavicencio, a prominent Ecuadorian presidential hopeful, was tragically shot and killed while leaving a campaign event in the capital city of Quito on August 9. The incident occurred just days before a crucial election that has been dominated by concerns over rising violence and crime plaguing the nation. Fernando Villavicencio, known for his past collaboration with international media outlets like The Guardian, was a fervent advocate against the alleged links between organised crime and political circles. Disturbing videos circulating on social media depict the harrowing moment when Villavicencio, surrounded by supporters and accompanied by security personnel, was ambushed by gunfire. Chaos ensued as people screamed and took cover, capturing the horrifying reality of the attack. In a televised address delivered after midnight, President Guillermo Lasso affirmed that despite this tragic event, the upcoming elections would proceed as planned. However, a two-month state of emergency was declared, with soldiers assigned to guard polling stations to ensure the safety of the electoral process. A suspect involved in the assassination attempt died from injuries sustained during a subsequent shootout, as confirmed by the attorney general's office. Additionally, six people were arrested in connection with the assassination. The assassination occurred against the backdrop of a concerning surge in violent crime across Ecuador. Drug-trafficking gangs have been responsible for prison massacres, contributing to a doubling of murder rates between 2020 and 2022. President Lasso firmly stated, "Organised crime has gone too far but they will feel the full weight of the law." Fernando Villavicencio, aged 59, was one of eight candidates vying for the presidency in the upcoming elections, scheduled for August 20. A significant portion of the Ecuadorian population expressed their top concern as addressing the nation's pervasive insecurity. Also read | Ecuador poll: Running mate of slain candidate Fernando Villavicencio to run for president Unravelling security in Ecuador: Pandemic impact and prison violence In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ecuador has witnessed a troubling decline in security. Starting in late 2020, violence erupted within the country's prisons, leading to deadly riots resulting in hundreds of inmate fatalities. Exploiting the weak control within prisons, gangs operating inside have expanded their dominion, endangering the lives of incarcerated individuals. This deterioration within correctional facilities is mirrored outside, with a staggering surge in murders. Ecuador's homicide rate has soared by almost 500 per cent since 2016, reaching an estimated 22 murders per 100,000 people in 2022, as reported by Verisk Maplecroft. The proliferation of violence: Underlying causes The current conservative administration, led by President Guillermo Lasso, attributes much of the violence to drug trafficking gangs. Lasso, who accelerated presidential elections to avoid impeachment, has consistently placed blame on these criminal organisations, even in the context of prison violence. According to the government, Villavicencio's assassination was orchestrated by foreign nationals linked to drug cartels. Verisk Maplecroft, a global risk intelligence company, also attributes the surge in criminality to the expansion of transnational drug-trafficking groups and violent street gangs. Infiltration of drug trade and regional implications Ecuador, historically known as the world's leading banana exporter, had managed to avoid the rampant violence that engulfed its northern neighbour, Colombia. However, a lack of law enforcement attention has allowed drug gangs to infiltrate the nation. Cocaine trafficking organisations often conceal their illicit cargo within banana shipments bound for Europe, where demand for the drug is soaring. Ecuador is not alone in facing these challenges; countries like Paraguay, a significant hub for global cocaine trade, have also suffered from drug-related violence. Surprisingly peaceful nations like Chile and Uruguay have not remained immune. Also watch | Ecuador Presidential Candidate Assassination: One suspect dead, six arrested Government's response In response to the escalating violence, President Lasso has implemented states of emergency on multiple occasions. These measures involve increased military presence on the streets and nightly curfews. Additionally, Lasso authorised civilians to use firearms in the fight against rising insecurity. Citizens have turned to gun ranges to enhance their self-defence capabilities and protect themselves in an increasingly perilous environment. Historical precedents: Political violence in Latin America The killing of Villavicencio draws parallels with past instances of political violence across Latin America. The analysts at Verisk Maplecroft highlight similarities to the 1984 assassination of Mexican presidential candidate Luis Donaldo Colosio and the 1989 killing of Colombia's Liberal party candidate Luis Carlos Galan. Recent incidents, including an assassination attempt against Argentine politician Cristina Fernandez De Kirchner and the stabbing of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, further underscore the recurring nature of political violence in the region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: How drugs, gang war, corruption contributed to Ecuador prez contender's murder

<p>Ten people were killed and seven wounded after a group of gunmen stormed a bar in Mexico's central state of Guanajuato.</p>

<p>The incident took place around 11 pm local time on Saturday (0500 GMT) at the "El Estadio" bar in the town of Apaseo el Grande, when a group of armed men burst in and opened fire at customers and employees of the bar along a highway that connects the cities of Celaya and Queretaro.</p>

<p>Three of those killed are women, officials said. The authorities have reinforced security in the area with members of various law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p>The State Attorney General's Office said via Twitter that it had opened an investigation to find those responsible for the violent incident on Saturday.</p>

<p>Guanajuato is one of Mexico's most popular tourist destinations. A prosperous industrial region, it has now become the country's bloodiest state.</p>

<p>Mexico is witnessing one of the bloodiest turf wars between cartels who are vying to establish their dominance to conduct drug trafficking and fuel theft.</p>

<p>Four Americans were kidnapped earlier this month in the Mexican city of Matamoros. They were reportedly visiting for medical tourism when they were caught in the crossfire between rival cartel groups and abducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two of them were returned to the US, while two others were found dead. A Mexican bystander was also killed.</p>

<p>One of the cartel groups in Matamoros apologised for the killings and turned over the men they say are responsible to police, saying kidnappers “acted under their own decision-making and lack of discipline” when they ambushed the victims.</p>

<p>In light of this incident, the Texas authorities issued a warning to Americans, especially those planning spring break trips, to skip travelling to Mexico.</p>

<p>“Drug cartel violence and other criminal activity represent a significant safety threat to anyone who crosses into Mexico right now,” Steven McCraw, the director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said in a statement.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Ten people were killed and seven wounded after a group of gunmen stormed a bar in Mexico's central state of Guanajuato. The incident took place around 11 pm local time on Saturday (0500 GMT) at the "El Estadio" bar in the town of Apaseo el Grande, when a group of armed men burst in and opened fire at customers and employees of the bar along a highway that connects the cities of Celaya and Queretaro.

Ten people were killed and seven wounded after a group of gunmen stormed a bar in Mexico's central state of Guanajuato. The incident took place around 11 pm local time on Saturday (0500 GMT) at the "El Estadio" bar in the town of Apaseo el Grande, when a group of armed men burst in and opened fire at customers and employees of the bar along a highway that connects the cities of Celaya and Queretaro. Three of those killed are women, officials said. The authorities have reinforced security in the area with members of various law enforcement agencies. The State Attorney General's Office said via Twitter that it had opened an investigation to find those responsible for the violent incident on Saturday. Guanajuato is one of Mexico's most popular tourist destinations. A prosperous industrial region, it has now become the country's bloodiest state. Mexico is witnessing one of the bloodiest turf wars between cartels who are vying to establish their dominance to conduct drug trafficking and fuel theft. Four Americans were kidnapped earlier this month in the Mexican city of Matamoros. They were reportedly visiting for medical tourism when they were caught in the crossfire between rival cartel groups and abducted. Two of them were returned to the US, while two others were found dead. A Mexican bystander was also killed. One of the cartel groups in Matamoros apologised for the killings and turned over the men they say are responsible to police, saying kidnappers “acted under their own decision-making and lack of discipline” when they ambushed the victims. In light of this incident, the Texas authorities issued a warning to Americans, especially those planning spring break trips, to skip travelling to Mexico. “Drug cartel violence and other criminal activity represent a significant safety threat to anyone who crosses into Mexico right now,” Steven McCraw, the director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

10 killed, seven injured after gunmen storm Mexican bar

<p>The arrest of Bruno Carbone, an infamous Italian drug trafficker on the run since 2003, took a mysterious turn this week when reports emerged claiming that he was captured and extradited from Syria. Carbone was on Europol's most wanted list of fugitives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The arrest, however, remains significant since Carbone was reportedly a pivotal member of the infamous Imperiale's Camorra clan, considered one of the most notorious drug-trafficking groups in the world. The Europol said that Carbone was a key contact for the procurement of large quantities of cocaine, mostly from Spain.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-is-black-cocaine-drug-seized-in-india-521631">Explained: What is ‘black cocaine’, drug seized in India?</a></strong></p>

<p>On November 15, Carbone was arrested in Rome in connection with a 20-year jail term handed down to him in September. The 45-year-old Italian citizen was sentenced to 20 years of prison in September 2022, with his prison sentence identifying him as a drug trafficker convicted for illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and participation in a criminal organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities provided no details to clarify how Carbone had been tracked down. But the Italian media reported that he had been captured in Dubai, and Mohammed Sankari, an official in a north-western Syrian area held by the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), claimed Carbone was caught “while passing through the ‘liberated’ areas in March with the aim of reaching the regions under the control of the regime” of the Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-youtube-exposes-children-to-cocaine-gun-clips-476968">Gravitas: YouTube exposes children to cocaine &amp; gun clips</a></strong></p>

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<p>A report in Italian media outlet Il Foglio said that yje United Arab Emirates (UAE) might have been the mediator of Carbone's extradition to Italy from Syria.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Operation Trojan Shield/OTF Greenlight in numbers:<br />
<br />
✔️ 27 million 📩 reviewed<br />
✔️ 700 house searches 🏚️<br />
✔️ 800 arrests 🚔<br />
✔️ +30 tons of drugs seized<br />
<br />
More details: <a href="https://t.co/odnXlqtjUe">https://t.co/odnXlqtjUe</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationTrojanShield?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationTrojanShield</a> <a href="https://t.co/LbJmANiLcD">pic.twitter.com/LbJmANiLcD</a></p>
— Europol (@Europol) <a href="https://twitter.com/Europol/status/1402200741125758983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The trafficking&nbsp;of narcotic drugs continues to be a major challenge for European authorities.&nbsp; More than 214.6 tonnes of cocaine were seized in Europe in 2020, an increase of 6 per cent&nbsp;compared to 2019 and a record high for the fourth consecutive year.</p>

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The arrest of Bruno Carbone, an infamous Italian drug trafficker on the run since 2003, took a mysterious turn this week when reports emerged claiming that he was captured and extradited from Syria.

The arrest of Bruno Carbone, an infamous Italian drug trafficker on the run since 2003, took a mysterious turn this week when reports emerged claiming that he was captured and extradited from Syria. Carbone was on Europol's most wanted list of fugitives. The arrest, however, remains significant since Carbone was reportedly a pivotal member of the infamous Imperiale's Camorra clan, considered one of the most notorious drug-trafficking groups in the world. The Europol said that Carbone was a key contact for the procurement of large quantities of cocaine, mostly from Spain. ALSO READ | Explained: What is ‘black cocaine’, drug seized in India? On November 15, Carbone was arrested in Rome in connection with a 20-year jail term handed down to him in September. The 45-year-old Italian citizen was sentenced to 20 years of prison in September 2022, with his prison sentence identifying him as a drug trafficker convicted for illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and participation in a criminal organisation. Authorities provided no details to clarify how Carbone had been tracked down. But the Italian media reported that he had been captured in Dubai, and Mohammed Sankari, an official in a north-western Syrian area held by the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), claimed Carbone was caught “while passing through the ‘liberated’ areas in March with the aim of reaching the regions under the control of the regime” of the Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad. WATCH | Gravitas: YouTube exposes children to cocaine & gun clips × A report in Italian media outlet Il Foglio said that yje United Arab Emirates (UAE) might have been the mediator of Carbone's extradition to Italy from Syria. Operation Trojan Shield/OTF Greenlight in numbers: ✔️ 27 million 📩 reviewed ✔️ 700 house searches 🏚️ ✔️ 800 arrests 🚔 ✔️ +30 tons of drugs seized More details: https://t.co/odnXlqtjUe #OperationTrojanShield pic.twitter.com/LbJmANiLcD — Europol (@Europol) June 8, 2021 × The trafficking of narcotic drugs continues to be a major challenge for European authorities. More than 214.6 tonnes of cocaine were seized in Europe in 2020, an increase of 6 per cent compared to 2019 and a record high for the fourth consecutive year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

From Syria to Italy via UAE: How Europe’s most notorious drug trafficker was arrested

Mexican children toting replica rifles march alongside armed members of a self-defense force who say they have been left to defend their village against drug traffickers all by themselves.

Mexican villagers take anti-narco fight into own hands

<p>Mexicans with missing children led marches on Friday -- when Mother's Day is celebrated here -- to protest the government's failure to find their sons and daughters or bring their cases to justice.</p>

<p>There are more than 40,000 missing persons in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wreckage-of-private-jet-carrying-13-people-found-in-mexico-217150"> Mexico</a>, which has been hit by a wave of violent crime in recent years linked to powerful drug cartels.</p>

<p>Protesters marched in 16 cities -- including around 2,000 people in the capital -- to voice their outrage and anguish over the thousands of clandestine graves that have been discovered in the country, and the tens of thousands of other missing persons who have never been found.</p>

<p>"I've been crying for the past eight years. I just want to know what happened to him," said Maria Guadalupe Aguilar, 64, a demonstrator at the Mexico City march whose eldest son, Jose Luis, disappeared in 2011 on his way to a business meeting in the city of Guadalajara.</p>

<p>"We're raising our voices so that what happened to our children doesn't keep happening," said a sobbing Lourdes de la Cruz, 61, whose youngest son, Daniel, disappeared in the city of Coatzacoalcos along with 30 other people in 2015, when he was 21.</p>

<p>The mothers carried large photographs of their missing children, shouting to passersby, "It could be your children, too."</p>

<p>President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador gave a Mother's Day message at a press conference, in which he said he was thinking especially of "the mothers who are looking for their missing children."</p>

<p>Critics accuse the leftist leader, who took office in December, of failing to keep his promise to curb the violence plaguing the country.</p>

<p>This year is on track to be the most violent ever, with a record 8,943 murders in the first three months of the year.</p>

<p>Highlighting the problem, gunmen attacked a bus carrying prison guards home for Mother's Day visits in the central town of Puente de Ixtla, killing five people and wounding three others.</p>

<p>The bodies were left splayed on the ground in front of the town's monument to mothers.</p>

<p>The town is located in Morelos state, which has been the scene of turf wars between rival criminal groups.</p>


Mexicans with missing children led marches on Friday -- when Mother's Day is celebrated here -- to protest the government's failure to find their sons and daughters or bring their cases to justice.

Mexicans with missing children led marches on Friday -- when Mother's Day is celebrated here -- to protest the government's failure to find their sons and daughters or bring their cases to justice. There are more than 40,000 missing persons in Mexico, which has been hit by a wave of violent crime in recent years linked to powerful drug cartels. Protesters marched in 16 cities -- including around 2,000 people in the capital -- to voice their outrage and anguish over the thousands of clandestine graves that have been discovered in the country, and the tens of thousands of other missing persons who have never been found. "I've been crying for the past eight years. I just want to know what happened to him," said Maria Guadalupe Aguilar, 64, a demonstrator at the Mexico City march whose eldest son, Jose Luis, disappeared in 2011 on his way to a business meeting in the city of Guadalajara. "We're raising our voices so that what happened to our children doesn't keep happening," said a sobbing Lourdes de la Cruz, 61, whose youngest son, Daniel, disappeared in the city of Coatzacoalcos along with 30 other people in 2015, when he was 21. The mothers carried large photographs of their missing children, shouting to passersby, "It could be your children, too." President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador gave a Mother's Day message at a press conference, in which he said he was thinking especially of "the mothers who are looking for their missing children." Critics accuse the leftist leader, who took office in December, of failing to keep his promise to curb the violence plaguing the country. This year is on track to be the most violent ever, with a record 8,943 murders in the first three months of the year. Highlighting the problem, gunmen attacked a bus carrying prison guards home for Mother's Day visits in the central town of Puente de Ixtla, killing five people and wounding three others. The bodies were left splayed on the ground in front of the town's monument to mothers. The town is located in Morelos state, which has been the scene of turf wars between rival criminal groups.

Mexicans march for their missing children on Mother's Day

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Mexicans march for their missing children on Mother's Day