Hell in Zitácuaro: Children aged 4, 5, and 10 caught in the crossfire of the CJNG attack

A clash between armed groups in the municipality of Zitácuaro, in the state of Michoacán, left a 5-year-old boy dead and two children, ages 4 and 10, injured.

The events occurred on the afternoon of June 19, when armed civilians engaged in shootings, drug blockades, and burned vehicles and commercial establishments in different parts of the town, according to local authorities.

According to the Michoacán Public Security Secretariat (SSP), in coordination with the Secretariat of National Defense (Defense), an operation was deployed in the area following reports of violence.

The Quadratín news agency reported that the clashes began around 2:00 p.m. and were carried out by opposing organized crime groups.

During the attacks, three vehicles and an OXXO convenience store were set on fire, while two other stores were damaged by gunfire.

According to the media, the perpetrators were alleged members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).