dw.com
Rise of Anti-Personnel Mines in Mexico's Drug War
The use of anti-personnel mines by drug cartels in Mexico has dramatically increased, causing numerous civilian casualties in rural areas of Tamaulipas and the Jalisco-Michoacán border, mirroring a similar but long-standing issue in Colombia.
- How are these mines being used and produced?
- Cartels use these mines to control territory and impede rival groups or military forces. The mines are homemade, often using PVC pipes or metal filled with gunpowder and metal fragments. The CJNG has also reportedly hired Colombian experts in explosives production, and some devices may come from illegal arms trafficking from Eastern Europe or Africa.
- What is the current impact of anti-personnel mines in Mexico?
- In 2023, Colombia saw 895 incidents involving anti-personnel mines, double the previous year's number. In Mexico, the increased use by cartels, particularly the Jalisco Nueva Generación Cartel (CJNG), has led to numerous injuries and deaths among rural workers in Tamaulipas and the Jalisco-Michoacán border region.
- What is the likelihood of the spread of this phenomenon and what actions are being taken?
- While the Mexican army has established a mine-clearing unit, experts disagree on the likelihood of wider use. While some believe it will remain localized to areas of intense conflict, others warn of potential spread to neighboring states like Guerrero, Guanajuato, and Sinaloa due to ongoing cartel conflicts and a lack of legislative action.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the issue, presenting information from multiple sources and perspectives, including researchers from different organizations and government reports. There is no apparent prioritization of one side over another.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. While terms like "criminosos" (criminals) and "facções" (factions) are used, they are appropriate within the context of reporting on criminal activity. There is no overtly charged language or emotional appeals.
Bias by Omission
While the article provides a comprehensive overview, potential omissions might include the specific number of casualties caused by the landmines, detailed analysis of governmental responses beyond the mentioned specialized unit, and in-depth exploration of the international legal ramifications of landmine use beyond the Treaty's mention. However, these omissions are likely due to space constraints and focus on the broader issue.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the use of landmines by criminal organizations in Mexico and Colombia, causing harm to civilians and disrupting peace and security. This directly impacts SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by undermining the rule of law, increasing violence, and threatening the safety and security of communities. The lack of effective legislative action and concrete measures to address the issue further exacerbates the negative impact.