Introduction
The brutal murder of Bernardo Bravo Manríquez has once again brought attention to the ongoing extortion faced by Michoacán’s lemon producers, reminding us that this issue remains unresolved despite initial progress.
Background on Lemon Producers’ Struggle
Two years ago, lemon growers in Apatzingán announced a strike due to the control of criminal groups and authorities’ inaction. This led to a national shortage and price increase of lemons, prompting the producers to take a stand against the criminal organizations. Although their actions resulted in government intervention and the presence of the National Guard, the extortion issue persists.
Extortion Continues
Despite the initial progress, extortion by criminal groups like Los Viagras continues. In September 2021, they increased the extortion fee from 2 to 4 pesos per kilogram of lemon. This has led to the murder of five producers in the past 14 months.
Economic Impact
Michoacán’s region is crucial for lemon production, accounting for 70% of the national output. With approximately 850,000 tons produced annually, the extortion generates significant income for criminal organizations. At a rate of 2 pesos per kilogram, this amounts to 1.7 billion pesos annually. The recent increase to 4 pesos per kilogram could potentially raise this to 3.4 billion pesos annually, or around 15 million USD monthly.
The Role of Financial Intelligence
As criminal groups continue to profit from extortion and money laundering, their power grows. This empowerment makes them more dangerous, as they can afford better weapons, ammunition, and bribe those who should be pursuing or imprisoning them.
Narcoinflation: A National Concern
Extortion not only affects lemon producers but has broader implications for the agricultural sector and consumers. The Consejo Nacional Agropecuario estimates that extortion accounts for 10-20% of the price of certain agricultural products. This includes payments to producers, extortionists involved in transportation and storage, and retailers. This phenomenon, known as narcoinflación, means that a portion of what we pay for some products ends up in criminal groups’ hands.
Call for Action
The murder of Bernardo Bravo Manríquez underscores the need for authorities to address extortion in the agricultural sector, both in Michoacán and across the country. Identifying money laundering circuits is essential to curb criminal groups’ influence.
Regional Impact
Extortion affects various agricultural sectors beyond lemon production. For instance, nurseries in Cuautla, fish producers in Tepaltzingo, citrus growers in Chinameca and Zacualpan de Amilpas, and sugarcane farmers in the region face extortion threats.
Proximity to Mexico City
The situation in Anenecuilco, a town 16 kilometers from Mexico City, highlights the severity of rural insecurity. Despite its proximity to the capital, this region grapples with significant challenges that threaten food security and the well-being of its inhabitants.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current situation regarding extortion in Michoacán’s lemon industry? Extortion continues, with criminal groups like Los Viagras demanding increased fees from producers.
- How does extortion impact the broader agricultural sector and consumers? Extortion contributes to narcoinflation, where a portion of the prices paid for certain agricultural products ends up in criminal organizations’ hands.
- What role does financial intelligence play in addressing this issue? Identifying money laundering circuits is crucial to curb criminal groups’ power and resources.
- Why is it important to address extortion in the agricultural sector? Extortion not only harms producers but also threatens food security and contributes to broader economic issues.
