Video 1/7 Observations: Powerful Psychological Grip Over the Population

Video 1/7 Observations: Powerful Psychological Grip Over the Population

The drug cartels have a strong psychological grip over the civilian populace and the security forces. The BBC reporter claims there have been approximately 16000 drug related killings since around 2007.

--- People do not report criminal acts for fear of retribution.

--- People seem desperate and appear to only find temporary solace in church.

---Security forces seem reluctant to investigate reports of disappearances or kidnappings. They appear complicit or fearful as the video notes the cartels are better armed than the police; they have military grade weaponry.

---The BBC reporter notes the police claim the murders in Mexico are only amongst the criminals, but the BBC reporter and the family of one possible victim dispute this. Locals claim the police are ignoring their requests. One father was sent to multiple police stations for assistance to find his missing son without any resolution, or assistance.