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Mexico Reclassifies Coahuayana Car Bomb as Organized Crime in Dispute Over Terrorism Label

Mexico’s security leadership now frames the Coahuayana bombing as cartel violence, highlighting the legal and political reluctance to use the terrorism label.

Overview

  • The FGR under Ernestina Godoy opened a terrorism inquiry after the Dec. 6 blast that killed five and injured 12 outside Coahuayana’s community police base.
  • Days later, authorities said the case shifted to FEMDO to pursue organized‑crime and weapons offenses after Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch argued the attack lacked political aims.
  • García Harfuch said the vehicle came from Colima and exploded after being parked at the site, describing the violence as part of turf disputes involving CJNG and rival groups.
  • Researchers at the Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila mapped at least 20 car‑bomb incidents since 1994, with a 2010–2012 wave tied to Los Zetas and a recent resurgence linked to CJNG.
  • Experts point to ambiguity in Article 139 and potential international repercussions as reasons officials avoid the terrorism label, while regional editorials warn the use of explosives is expanding.