Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has ordered an open investigation into the mayor of Coalcoman, Michoacan, after a controversial Christmas party where local government officials allegedly praised drug lords from the notorious Cartel Jalisco New Generation (CJNG). The party, attended by city officials and a high-ranking military officer, reportedly saw cartel members distributing gifts to children, with a banner later thanking the cartel’s leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, and his sons for their “generosity.”
During her morning press conference, President Sheinbaum condemned the actions, calling the praise of criminal figures as “a statement in support of criminal activity.” She emphasized that the investigation would focus on whether Mayor Anavel Avila Castrejon had ties to the cartel, with the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) leading the inquiry to determine the full extent of the situation.
The incident gained attention after videos surfaced on social media, showing the lavish event in which children received hundreds of toys from cartel members. Reports also revealed the display of a banner thanking El Mencho and his sons for their contributions to the event. El Mencho is the notorious leader of CJNG, a highly violent criminal organization responsible for mass killings, rival confrontations, and indiscriminate attacks targeting innocent civilians.
The investigation highlights the growing concerns over cartel influence in local politics and the potential collusion between government officials and criminal groups in Mexico.