In Salamanca, of the 60 businesses that used to operate, currently only 30 are still functioning due to the pressure of 'floor fees' by criminal organizations. The State Attorney's Office reported that 17 alleged members of criminal cells dedicated to drug dealing and extortion were arrested in Apaseo el Alto and Salamanca. Two properties used for committing crimes have been subject to asset forfeiture and are under the custody of the Attorney's Office.
"The Attorney General's Office of Guanajuato has obtained definitive sentences confirming the asset forfeiture of properties linked to illicit activities, reaffirming its commitment to legality and the pursuit of justice," the institution mentioned, announcing that these properties are now part of the Attorney's Office's assets.
On the other hand, 17 alleged members of criminal cells were arrested in León, San Francisco del Rincón, Irapuato, and Celaya, confiscating properties, weapons, drugs, and money in various operations. Among those detained are several individuals identified as decision-makers of illicit activities.
The State Attorney's Office announced that the detainees will remain in custody while their legal situation is defined and emphasized the effectiveness of the joint work between state and federal authorities in combating crime in Guanajuato. The main criminal groups identified in the area are the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel (CSRL) and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which are dedicated to extortion.
Specifically, extortion has harmed merchants, entrepreneurs, and restaurateurs in the region. Many restaurants have closed due to this situation; for example, in Celaya, of the 150 registered establishments, only 75 are still operating according to the National Chamber of the Restaurant Industry and Seasoned Foods (Canirac).
