Mexico's Vigilantes

Thanks to Armando F. Mastrapa of Cubapolidata, I saw this recent article about paramilitary groups in northern Mexico. The appearance of vigilante groups is a worrying sign that indicates state order in Mexico is nearing its nadir. The rise of vigilante groups is a sign of primary loyalties and the weakness of the state, as well as the formation of alternate power centers that cannot be controlled by state authority. Vigilante groups tend to be brutal and can fragment social cohesion, like the AUC or "Los Pepes" in Colombia.

All the more reason why our leaders should wake from their slumber and take note of the catastrophe in progress in our backyard.