Mario Mendoza Reyes was at this church in Apatzingan, Mexico, when 200 federal troops searching for a leader of La Familia swooped in and arrested him and 32 other men. The Mexican Army has been criticized for heavy-handed tactics, and claims of abuse have soared. Tony Avelar/The Christian Science MonitorThe Rise Of Mexico's La Familia, A Narco-Evangelist Cartel -- Christian Science Monitor
Mexico and the US are working together bring down Mexico's newest, most violent drug cartel. Last month, 303 alleged La Familia members were arrested in 38 US cities. Fifteen members were indicted Friday in Chicago.
Apatzingan, Mexico - They hand out Bibles to the poor in the rural foothills of the state of Michoacán. They forbid drug use, build schools and drainage systems, and declare themselves the protectors of women and children.
But this is no church group. This is La Familia Michoacána, Mexico's newest drug-trafficking gang, which now reigns over Mexico's methamphetamine trade. What began as a self-declared vigilante group doing "the work of God," now is seen as the nation's most violent criminal group.
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More News On Mexico's Drug Cartel Wars
U.S., Mexico align against common foe: brutal narcotics trade -- Washington Post
U.S. priorities shifting in Mexico's drug fight -- Dallas News
U.S., Mexico overcome mistrust to unite against cartels -- Statesman
Expert: Juárez violence a 'terrorist war' -- Las Cruces Sun-News
Central American Disorder — a Threat to Mexico's Security -- Mexidata.info
Did US law spur Mexico's meth sales? -- Christian Science Monitor
Tucson Police seize over 2,000 lbs.of marijuana -- Examiner
Mexican army arrests three alleged hit squad members -- El Paso Times