Escalating Violence Forces Sinaloa Shutdown

Authorities in Sinaloa, Mexico cancel national day celebrations and shut schools amid escalating violence due to Sinaloa Cartel infighting, leaving 12 dead. Tensions have surged since the arrest of cartel leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, leading to increased security concerns and reduced transport services.

Authorities in the western Mexican state of Sinaloa on Thursday canceled national day celebrations and shut schools due to escalating violence stemming from internal Sinaloa Cartel fighting, resulting in 12 deaths since Monday.

Shootouts, gunfire, and burnt-out vehicles have become common in the state capital of Culiacan, home to nearly 1 million people. Videos on social media depict convoys of heavily-armed gunmen navigating major streets. Rising tensions between the two most powerful factions of the Sinaloa Cartel have been evident since late July, following the arrest of trafficker and leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada in the United States.

Zambada, in his mid-70s, claims he was kidnapped by a senior member of Los Chapitos, another cartel faction, and taken to the United States against his will. Governor Ruben Rocha Moya announced the suspension of school and national day celebrations set for Sept. 15, expressing concerns for children's and young people's safety. 'We need to continue to look after them,' Rocha stated.

Transport in Culiacan operates at reduced capacity as many residents stay indoors. Mexico's federal government has deployed over 500 soldiers since Zambada's arrest. Outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador stated the military is working to maintain order, emphasizing the need to prevent harm to the population.

(With inputs from agencies.)