Six minors among the 11 murder victims in Michoacán

The bodies of 11 slain individuals were found in the municipality of Tangamandapio, Michoacán on Monday, according to the State Attorney General's Office (FGE). The victims’ bodies were found to have firearm-related injuries. 

Of the 11 victims identified by the authorities, six are reported to be minors, aged 15-17 years old, all residents of Tarecuato, Michoacán, Animal Político reported.

After the bodies were discovered, the Mexican Armed Forces – including soldiers, national guardsmen and state police -- launched an operation to capture the perpetrators. So far, however, efforts have been futile, reports El Financiero.  

According to the State Prosecutor’s Office, the multiple homicides were reported in Tarecuato, and ballistic evidence was promptly collected and sent for forensic analysis. A truck and three motorcycles were also seized. 

The Zamora Regional Prosecutor’s Office has been put in charge of the investigation, but a motive has not yet been released to the public. 

In recent months, members of organized crime syndicates have been involved in attacks against local authorities, attacking government buildings, shooting at vehicles and setting local businesses ablaze. In the first week of November alone, 17 homicides were reported in the area. 

The wave of violence that affects Michoacán is attributed to the territorial dispute between the Jalisco Nueva Generación cartel and the so-called United Cartels.