16 killed in violent shootout between rival cartels in southern Mexico

In Mexico City, authorities reported that a violent clash between two criminal factions in the southern Pacific state of Guerrero resulted in the death of 16 individuals on Thursday. This incident is part of a recent surge in violence plaguing the country.

The confrontation took place around 5 a.m. in a rural, mountainous area of Guerrero, which has been a hotspot for cartel conflicts in recent years as groups vie for control of the region.

Local law enforcement officers were involved in the skirmish, resulting in the death of two officers and injuries to four others, according to a statement from Mexico’s defense ministry. The injured officers are in stable condition after receiving medical treatment.

The National Guard also joined the response to the shootout, with three military personnel sustaining injuries, as per the ministry.

The 14 remaining deceased individuals are believed to be members of the rival criminal groups, and authorities have arrested 11 individuals in connection with the incident.