Reports Emerge of a CJNG Attack Using Explosive Drones Against Cárteles Unidos in Michoacán

“Sol Prendido” for Borderland Beat 

The CJNG uses explosive-laden drones in an attack on Cárteles Unidos in Michoacán, intensifying the territorial dispute in the region.

A video circulated on the social media platform “X” has once again raised concerns regarding the alleged use of explosive-laden drones by organized crime groups operating in Michoacán.

The footage was posted on the account “@war_noir”—which specializes in sharing material related to armed conflicts—accompanied by the following message:

“#Mexico: Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) bombed a ‘Cárteles Unidos’ (R5) camp with drones in Michoacán. CJNG apparently used fairly common off-the-shelf (COTS) DJI UAVs armed with air-dropped Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).”

The footage shows aerial shots captured by a drone and what appear to be detonations over a makeshift camp; however, the video lacks elements that would allow for independent confirmation of the exact location, the date of the incident, or the identities of those involved.

To date, neither federal nor state authorities have confirmed the authenticity of the recording or issued official information regarding an attack of this nature.

The use of drones modified to drop explosives has been documented in various clashes between criminal organizations in Michoacán in recent years, particularly in municipalities within the Tierra Caliente region, where criminal cells are vying for territorial control.

The circulation of the video comes amidst a reinforcement of the federal security strategy in Michoacán, where the Mexican government has stated it is maintaining ongoing operations to weaken criminal organizations.

Yesterday, the Secretary of National Defense, Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, reported that since November of last year, the Army has located 625 improvised explosive devices—a figure reflecting the increased use of this type of weaponry by criminal groups fighting for territorial control. “Since November of last year, 625 improvised explosive devices have been detected. We must also mention drones, though many of them function as mines,” he said.

Physical nature

The general acknowledged that the planting of mines and the use of explosive-laden drones stem from territorial disputes between criminal organizations seeking to block the advance of rival groups and federal forces.

Source: Contramuro