The region of Morelos, in Mexico, has been the scene of a complex network of criminal groups, where Fuerza Morelense, formed by remnants of the criminal gang Los Rojos, is linked with the Sierra Cartel, also known as Los Tlacos. Its leader, Onésimo El Necho Merquina, has close ties with officials of Evelyn Salgado's government. In the midst of this situation, the figure of El Barbas stands out, who leads the criminal cell linked to the Sinaloa Cartel.
The outlook in Morelos becomes complicated with the presence of 14 criminal groups operating in the entity, according to revelations from Secretary of Public Security, Miguel Ángel Urrutia. A deteriorated security infrastructure and abandonment by the government of Margarita González have been evidenced. Despite the region being under public scrutiny since early 2022, violence and corruption have permeated society and local politics.
Despite the presence of criminal leaders in the area, authorities have failed to effectively dismantle these organizations. The Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime has begun an investigation into alleged links with criminals in the region, while the connections of several mayors, deputies, and former legislators with organized crime have been pointed out.
Morelos, in its complexity, reflects what is happening in other regions of the country, where criminal networks and politics intertwine. The state is also the scene of territorial disputes between different criminal groups, exacerbating insecurity and violence in the region. Urgent and decisive action from the authorities is needed to face this complex situation affecting Morelos society.
