6 soldiers killed in Mexico after ‘narco landmine’ explosion

By Jorge Antonio Rocha

MEXICO CITY (AA) - Mexican armed forces reported Wednesday that six soldiers were killed and two injured following a “narco landmine” explosion in western Mexico.

Troops were deployed near the border between the states of Jalisco and Michoacán, along the western coast of Mexico -- a region known as a stronghold for powerful drug cartels. The area has become a violent warzone as criminal organizations such as the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and La Familia Michoacana continue to battle for control.

Preliminary reports indicate that a military unit was patrolling the area when it triggered a homemade explosive, killing the soldiers. Media reports said two of the deceased were members of the National Guard, while the other four were army personnel.

The explosion reflects a growing tactic used by drug cartels in the region: handmade or improvised explosive devices (IEDs), planted in rural areas to deter security forces and rival groups. The explosives are typically constructed using gunpowder, metal tubes and shredded metal, which act as shrapnel upon detonation.

In the last four years, residents and media outlets have reported a rise in the use of homemade explosives, also referred to as “narco landmines.”

Authorities have documented numerous incidents resulting in casualties for military forces and unsuspecting civilians.

Last December, four soldiers were killed in two incidents involving homemade explosives in Michoacán.

Civilians have also become victims. Ramón Paz Salinas, a 68-year-old teacher, was killed Jan. 14 by a landmine while driving to teach classes in Michoacán. Similarly, a 65-year-old farmer died in another explosion on April 3.

On Jan. 31, Mexico’s secretary of defense reported that 87 explosive devices were removed from the states of Michoacán, Guerrero and the state of Mexico.