In the State of Mexico, as part of the 'Atarraya' operation, a total of 817 'chelerías' and barbershops were closed. Recently, it was reported that some of the closed businesses in Tultitlán, Ixtapaluca, and Tlalnepantla were involved in violent incidents with firearms.
Among the closed establishments are 'Ney-Ney', a 'chelería' that operated as a restaurant-bar in Villas Esmeralda, Tultitlán, 'Capitán Barbosa', a bar located in Hornos de Santa Bárbara, Ixtapaluca, and a barbershop in Tlalnepantla, whose name was not disclosed.
Authorities indicate that these places, along with the more than 800 already closed, were used by criminal groups to carry out illegal activities or were linked to investigations of violent incidents. The 'Atarraya' operation began in December of last year and so far, 216 business owners have not appeared before the authorities to clarify the accusations against them.
In February, protests were held against the 'Atarraya' operation due to reports of 'planting' drugs by elements of the State of Mexico Prosecutor's Office in barbershops. The Prosecutor's Office is investigating at least six cases of 'planting' drugs and accusations of soliciting bribes from owners to avoid closure.
According to official data, at 'chelerías' and barbershops in the region, at least 1,337 crimes have been committed, including homicides, kidnappings, sexual assaults, injuries with firearms, and cases of drug dealing. Although no specific cartel or criminal organization has been attributed, authorities acknowledge the presence of drug trafficking in these establishments.
