Wave of Fear: Mayors Seek Safety Amidst Rising Violence in Mexico

Following the recent beheading of a mayor in Guerrero, Mexico, four mayors have asked for federal protection due to escalating violence from drug gangs. The alarming situation highlights the ongoing risks politicians face in volatile regions such as Guerrero and Guanajuato.

Four mayors in Mexico have urgently sought federal protection following the gruesome beheading of a colleague in Guerrero last week, officials confirmed on Tuesday. This incident has heightened fears among local politicians amid escalating violence in the region.

Mayor Alejandro Arcos, who had only just taken office, became the latest victim of the dangerous environment. His remains were discovered shortly after he assumed his new role, prompting further demands for official protection from both Guerrero and Guanajuato, another violence-stricken state.

Federal Public Safety Secretary Omar Garcia Harfuch disclosed that while Guerrero's capital, Chilpancingo, is plagued by warring drug gangs, similar threats loom over candidates in Guanajuato. As gangs continue to exert pressure on local officials through extortion and intimidation, the urgency for safeguarding politicians has never been greater.

(With inputs from agencies.)