Mexico Launches Major Security Offensive in Michoacan After Mayor’s Assassination

The government of President Claudia Sheinbaum on Sunday announced a sweeping new security strategy to combat organized crime in Michoacan, following the brazen public assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo, which has shocked the nation.

Dubbed the Michoacan Plan for Peace and Justice, the initiative will deploy more than 10,500 members of Mexico’s army, air force, and National Guard to dismantle criminal groups, curb extortion, and destroy drug labs and training camps, officials said at a press conference. The plan involves an investment of 57 billion pesos (approximately USD 3 billion).

The violence-ravaged state of Michoacan, a hub for avocado and lime production, has seen renewed bloodshed since Manzo was shot dead during Day of the Dead celebrations on November 1. The mayor had been a vocal critic of federal authorities for failing to confront cartels.

Under the new plan, the federal government will strengthen local police forces and the state attorney general’s office, while deploying helicopters, surveillance aircraft, and drones to bolster operations. Additional funding will support welfare programs, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, and job creation.

Top cabinet members, including Security Minister Omar García Harfuch, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, and Agriculture Minister Julio Berdegué, joined Sheinbaum for the announcement at the National Palace.

“A special effort is being made for the people of Michoacan,” Sheinbaum said, pledging to personally monitor progress and provide public updates every 15 days.

The assassination of Manzo — who had just addressed a crowd and carried his young son moments before he was gunned down — ignited outrage across Mexico, increasing pressure on the federal government to address the spiraling violence.

Producers of citrus and avocados in the region have long complained of extortion, kidnappings, and killings tied to cartel control. Just weeks earlier, Bernardo Bravo, a leader in the local lime sector, was murdered.

Manzo’s widow, Grecia Quiroz, was sworn in as Uruapan’s new mayor on Wednesday, vowing to continue her late husband’s fight against organized crime.

Authorities identified 17-year-old Victor Manuel Ubaldo as the gunman responsible for Manzo’s killing; he was shot dead by security forces at the scene. Officials said investigations continue as more suspects are believed to be involved.