Background on Carlos Manzo, the Mayor of Uruapan
Carlos Manzo Rodríguez, the mayor of Uruapan, Michoacán, was tragically killed in an assassination attempt on March 31, 2023. Manzo was a prominent figure in Mexican politics and had been actively working to combat crime and corruption in his region. His dedication to improving the lives of Uruapan’s residents made him a well-known and respected leader.
Official Statements on Security Arrangements
Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, Secretary of National Defense (Sedena), and Omar García Harfuch, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC), addressed concerns regarding the mayor’s security team.
Both officials firmly stated that there is no evidence linking the close security team of Carlos Manzo with organized crime. They clarified that the National Guard was only providing peripheral security, while the municipal police were responsible for closer protection.
Mexican officials Ricardo Trevilla Trejo and Omar García Harfuch have dismissed any links between Mayor Carlos Manzo’s security team and organized crime. They explained that the National Guard only provided peripheral security, while municipal police took care of closer protection.
#Uruapan, Mexico
Security Measures and Investigations
García Harfuch confirmed that security camera footage from nearby businesses and the attack site is being analyzed by the Fiscalía General del Estado de Michoacán.
Under instructions from President Claudia Sheinbaum, security will be reinforced in Michoacán, particularly in Uruapan and areas affected by extortion. García Harfuch emphasized that they will continue their operations with a focus on investigating the use of force, targeting the apprehension of criminals.
- Reinforced security efforts in Michoacán, especially Uruapan and affected areas
- Prioritize investigations focusing on the use of force by criminals
- Detentions in Michoacán have been significant, and operations will continue with priority on apprehending criminals
Previous Risk Assessment and Security Arrangements
In December of the previous year, a risk analysis was conducted for Mayor Manzo involving both Sedena and SSPC. During this process, Manzo himself decided that his immediate security would be handled by trusted municipal officers while the National Guard would provide peripheral security during public events and travels.
Trevilla Trejo explained that the National Guard personnel were trained and equipped with long guns to offer peripheral security as Manzo moved around. Their mission was to accompany him during travels and protect the surrounding environment.
Despite the high risks posed by criminal groups in the area, Manzo frequently ventured into the territory and directly participated in operations.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Are there links between the mayor’s security team and organized crime?
A: No, according to officials Ricardo Trevilla Trejo and Omar García Harfuch, there is no evidence connecting the mayor’s security team with organized crime. - Q: What role did the National Guard play in the mayor’s security?
A: The National Guard provided peripheral security, while municipal police were responsible for closer protection. - Q: What measures are being taken to enhance security in Michoacán?
A: Security will be reinforced, particularly in Uruapan and areas affected by extortion. Operations will prioritize investigating the use of force by criminals. - Q: What is the current status of investigations into the mayor’s assassination?
A: Authorities are analyzing security camera footage, and responsibility determinations will be made by the competent authorities. There will be no impunity, as per the Secretariat of Defense’s stance.
Both officials expressed their sorrow over Manzo’s death and extended condolences to his family. Trevilla Trejo highlighted the unfortunate impact on Manzo’s family, leaving them without their father figure.
