Mexico: Cardenas-Comalcalco highway in Cardenas, Tabasco State, blocked by armed groups overnight April 22-23

Reports indicate that armed individuals have set fire to several vehicles, including a passenger bus, in the town of Santa Rosalia in Cardenas, Tabasco State, overnight April 22-23. At least one person is dead. Similar incidents were also reported along the Cardenas-Comalcalco highway, which has reportedly been blocked by armed groups. Disruptions have also been reported on the Cardenas-Villahermosa highway.

While officials did not immediately specify the identities of the armed civilians involved in the fighting, the clashes may have involved individuals affiliated with drug-trafficking organizations as the region is part of a smuggling corridor.

A heightened security presence is likely across Cardenas over the coming hours. Ground transport disruptions will also likely persist until authorities can control the situation. Further unrest is possible.

Cardenas is around 47 km (29 miles) northwest of Villahermosa, Tabasco.