Mexico, Nov 16: A protest over rising violent crime in Mexico spiralled into clashes on Saturday, leaving more than 100 people injured in Mexico City and leading to 20 arrests, authorities said. Thousands had gathered at the Zocalo to denounce President Claudia Sheinbaum’s security policies, fuelled by anger over recent assassinations.
AFP reporters said masked protesters toppled metal barriers near the National Palace and threw paving stones at riot police, who used tear gas to control the situation. Security chief Pablo Vazquez said injuries included 20 protesters and 100 police officers, with dozens of officers hospitalised for cuts and bruises.
Police arrested 20 people for assault and theft and have opened an investigation into the beating of a La Jornada journalist during the unrest.
The protest drew energy from the “Sombrero Movement,” inspired by slain Michoacan mayor Carlos Manzo, known for confronting drug gangs in Uruapan. Many attendees wore sombreros in his memory, though his widow publicly distanced the family from Saturday’s rally. The tensions follow the October killing of Bernardo Bravo, a prominent agricultural leader from the same region.
Ahead of the protest, Sheinbaum questioned its legitimacy, calling it “inorganic” and “paid for” and alleging foreign backing aimed at undermining her government.
