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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Maria Verza

Why Mexican cartels are increasingly using car bombs and other explosives

Mexico Violence - (Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Drug cartels across Mexico are increasingly turning to car bombs, explosives-laden drones and improvised explosive devices, a trend that could further strain Mexico’s already tense relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly threatened military action against the cartels.

The latest incident occurred Sunday night outside a police station in Ojocaliente, a small city 360 miles (580 km) northwest of Mexico City. No one was killed, but the explosion of 200 kilograms (440 pounds) of explosives injured 11 people and damaged more than 60 homes in the city center, Mexico's security chief Omar García Harfuch said Friday during a visit to Zacatecas with President Claudia Sheinbaum.

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