Operation Atarraya: Real fight against crime or abuse of power in the State of Mexico?

The State of Mexico faces a security crisis that the government tries to disguise with media operations. One of them is the so-called "Operation Atarraya", launched in December 2024 as an alleged measure against drug sales and other crimes in 27 municipalities.

However, allegations of abuse of authority and planting of evidence have cast doubt on its true intentions.

A security strategy or a smokescreen?

The government claims that this operation aims to dismantle criminal networks in bars and "chelerías." However, in practice, it seems more like a selective persecution than a genuine effort against crime.

More than 500 establishments have been secured under the pretext of combating extortion, human trafficking, and drug trafficking. Nonetheless, many owners have reported arbitrary closures and seizures without clear evidence.

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Corruption within the operations

Allegations of corruption have begun to surface. In February 2025, two agents from the State of Mexico Prosecutor's Office were removed from their positions after being caught planting drugs in barbershops during the operations.

Videos circulating on social media show agents manipulating evidence. Under public pressure, Jorge Jiménez, legislator from Movimiento Ciudadano (MC), has demanded that Prosecutor José Luis Cervantes Martínez appear before the local Congress to provide explanations.

Real results or government propaganda?

While the government celebrates Operation Atarraya as a "success," the reality on the streets of the State of Mexico shows otherwise. Homicides, robberies, and extortions continue to rise, and the population is beginning to question whether this "strategy" is truly a fight against crime or simply a staged performance.

Allegations of corruption continue to grow, while the state administration prioritizes appearances instead of offering a real solution to insecurity.