Cartel attacks competitors with drones in Mexico

Mexican drug cartels continue to increase the use of drones in armed conflicts, which increases tensions between Mexico and the United States.

Here's What We Know

Recently, a drone operator from the El Tena cartel attacked a vehicle of the rival CJNG cartel in Michoacán state. The drone used was a converted civilian drone that dropped a homemade bomb from a high altitude.

The use of drones by cartels is becoming increasingly widespread - they are used for reconnaissance, drug smuggling, explosives and as kamikaze drones. CJNG even has a separate unit specialising in combat drones.

The American publication Border Report notes that cartels use drones to track the US Border Patrol on a daily basis. This first became known in September last year, when two drone operators were arrested in Juarez.

Last month, cartels attacked Mexican National Guard units in the state of Chihuahua with an explosive drone. Similar attacks have also been reported in Michoacán and Guerrero.

Tensions are also rising on the border with the United States. In late January, cartel militants fired on the US Border Patrol. In response, the new US Secretary of Defence, Pete Hagel, threatened military action if the Mexican government does not actively fight drug cartels.

Source: X