Zacatecas massacre: 10 bodies, Sinaloa cartel video claim disputed

The discovery of 10 bodies in three municipalities of Zacatecas, Mexico, on July 18, 2026, has plunged the state into crisis. Five victims were found hanging from a bridge in Pánuco, four near an IMSS clinic in Morelos, and one on a highway in Sain Alto. The victims included a former mayor, Ignacio Castrejón Valdez; a municipal official, Fidel Alvarado de la Torre; a firefighter; businessmen; and a rancher. Eight died by asphyxiation, two by gunfire Source: La Jornada.

The authorities' response

Governor David Monreal vowed there would be no impunity, stating, "We will not return to that long dark night" Source: La Jornada. The state deployed 400 federal and state security personnel Source: La Jornada. On July 21, three suspects—two men and a minor—were arrested in Fresnillo, accused of acting as lookouts. They were found with drugs, body armor, and ammunition Source: Infobae. Authorities are investigating two lines: corruption by local officials and extortion Source: Milenio.

The video controversy

A video surfaced on July 20 showing about 20 armed men claiming to be from the Sinaloa cartel factions "Los Mayos" and "Los Cabrera." They admitted to the killings, saying they "do not kill innocents" and accused the victims of breaking agreements. They also addressed Governor Monreal, demanding he honor "accords" and threatening his family Source: El País. However, the state security secretary, Arturo Medina Mayoral, dismissed the video as "politically tinted" and technically flawed . The government denies any pact with criminal groups .