Mexican authorities report the murder of five musicians from Grupo Fugitivo, allegedly by members of the Gulf Cartel. Their kidnapping and subsequent death shed light on ongoing violence and the implications for artists in the region.
Five Musicians Slain in Cartel-Linked Violence in Mexico
Five Musicians Slain in Cartel-Linked Violence in Mexico
The tragic end of Grupo Fugitivo raises urgent concerns about cartel presence and safety near the US border.
In a shocking development, five musicians from the regional band Grupo Fugitivo, aged between 20 and 40, were murdered, allegedly at the hands of the Gulf Cartel in the Mexican city of Reynosa, close to the US-Mexico border. The musicians went missing on May 25 while en route to a private gig, with their families subsequently receiving ransom requests.
Authorities in Tamaulipas state have arrested nine suspected cartel members linked to the grisly crime, as stated by attorney general Irving Barrios Mojica. Investigations are currently underway to determine the motives behind the killings, as the musicians were known for performing at local gatherings and dances.
Grupo Fugitivo's music often features corridos, a genre that has historical roots in tales celebrating drug cartels and their figures. While it remains unclear whether the group was intentionally targeted due to their musical themes or if they were mere casualties of the entrenched violence in Tamaulipas—an area under significant influence of the Gulf Cartel—the loss of these artists has sparked further concern.
In response to the increasing danger, the United States government has labeled the Gulf Cartel and several similar organizations as "global terrorist groups." Additionally, a level 4 travel advisory has been issued by the US embassy for various Mexican cities, including Reynosa, warning citizens against travel due to prevalent crime, kidnapping incidents, and escalating violence.
The US State Department has noted the substantial presence of heavily armed criminals who patrol the region, operating largely without consequence in areas where local law enforcement struggles to maintain order. The tragic fate of Grupo Fugitivo serves as a painful reminder of the safety risks facing all within the vicinity of cartel turmoil.
