The brutal cult-like cartel that dominates drug production in Mexico’s Michoacan state has made a perplexing call for a truce with the federal government, raising speculation the gang may be losing power.
Early in November, hand-printed banners were strung up in several towns across the western state of Michoacan, including in the state capital Morelia, signed by the cartel known as “La Familia” (The Family), that said the gang would disband if the federal government promised to defend the region from other drug gangs.
“If the government accepts this public commitment and achieves it, La Familia Michoacana will dissolve,” the banners read.
Mexican President Felipe Calderon is battling a handful of powerful cartels across the country and says there will be no negotiations with traffickers.
Video from Oct. 2009:
Update: The supposed leader of a notorious drug gang in México has been captured, authorities said Tuesday.
José Alfredo Landa, 37, who officials say ran a sect of the La Familia, was arrested on Monday along with three other suspects, federal police said.