Rising Violence in Sinaloa: A Brewing Intra-Cartel War

Mexican authorities recorded seven homicides in Sinaloa on Friday, adding to the 19 total for the week amid escalating violence, with fears of an intra-cartel war. Victims were found in multiple locations, and recent arrests have intensified concerns. Kidnappings and disruptions in Culiacan highlight the growing unrest.

Mexican authorities logged seven homicides in the western state of Sinaloa on Friday. The latest wave of violence has contributed to an overall weekly death toll of 19, stoking fears of an imminent intra-cartel war.

A statement from the Sinaloa prosecutor's office indicated that the latest victims were discovered in four separate locations. Notably, two individuals were killed in the capital, Culiacan, and five others in Concordia, both identified as hotspots for criminal activities.

Sinaloa, the stronghold of the formidable Sinaloa Cartel, has been on edge since the recent arrest of gang leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, prompting concerns over internal conflicts and territorial disputes. Businesses in Culiacan have shuttered, public transport has been reduced, and Independence Day celebrations canceled in response to the escalating violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)