The most recent wave of drug-fueled gang violence in Acapulco, Mexico killed up to 30 people this weekend, according to Mexican government statements. The fighting began last Friday when a scuffle between competing gangs evolved into a gun battle that left five burned vehicles and seven dead. The shootings then continued Saturday and Sunday, igniting prolonged gunfire and mounting casualties—including a 17-year-old male. According to police, several of their positions were fired upon yesterday, but no officers were killed.
This latest episode is the most recent blow to Acapulco’s tourism revenues, which are projected to fall by as much as 88 percent this year as U.S. college students cancel spring break trips due to reports of violence. In 2010, drug violence in Mexico claimied 16,000 lives despite efforts by local and national authorities to control the problem. In the pacific resort city of Acapulco, which has seen growing violence in recent years, attacks are largely attributed to three specific cartels: the Beltrán Levya brothers; the Michoacana family; and Los Zetas.
Despite this weekend’s turmoil, Zeferino Toreblanca, Governor of the state of Guerrero, insisted that the streets were secure and the city was open for business.
