The recent murder of Milton Morales Figueroa, head of the Tactical Strategy and Special Operations Unit in Mexico City’s Secretary of Citizen Security, has sparked significant speculation about its implications. Morales was killed on July 21, and his death has been interpreted by some as a possible warning aimed at Omar García Harfuch, who is set to become the next head of the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection in the administration of elected president Claudia Sheinbaum.
Security journalist Antonio Nieto discussed the case during an interview with Azucena Uresti on Radio Fórmula, suggesting that Morales’s murder might not be an isolated incident. Instead, it appears to be a strategic message for García Harfuch’s team. Nieto noted that the investigation has focused primarily on Morales’s responsibilities as a commissioner, specifically his involvement in high-stakes investigations in the capital. So far, authorities have not identified any recent threats or conflicts of interest that could have led to his killing.
Nieto pointed out that Morales was unprotected and simply waiting to buy groceries on his day off when he was attacked, indicating a possible lack of immediate threat. This situation raises the notion that his murder serves as a warning to García Harfuch’s group. However, it is important to note that these details are not officially recorded in the case opened by the Attorney General’s office in the State of Mexico.
Morales was recognized for leading pivotal operations against organized crime and drug trafficking. Among his notable achievements was dismantling a cell of the Sinaloa Cartel operating at Mexico City’s International Airport and managing significant drug seizures. He played key roles in high-profile investigations, including the attempted assassination of journalist Ciro Gómez Leyva and a robbery involving singer Miguel Bosé. His work was instrumental in addressing organized crime in the capital.
Nieto also drew parallels between Morales’s assassination and García Harfuch’s own ambush in 2020, orchestrated by suspected members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). These events have altered the security landscape in Mexico City drastically. Following García Harfuch’s attack, the dynamics changed, with the city transforming into a battlefield for various criminal organizations.
The journalist emphasized the persistent violence and threats that figures like García Harfuch and his team face. He noted that a faction supporting Francisco Almazán Barocio, head of the investigation police, is gaining power, indicating that tensions are high as García Harfuch joins Sheinbaum’s security team.
Nieto has also mentioned that Morales’s residence in Coacalco, an area known to be vulnerable, contributed to the risks involved. He indicated that such locations are easier to corrupt, exposing officials to greater danger, especially in municipalities where protecting public officials isn’t a priority.
Following Morales’s death, Pablo Vázquez Camacho, the current head of the Secretary of Citizen Security, assured that all key personnel are provided with protective details and measures to ensure their safety will be reevaluated. Reports suggest that Morales was expected to work closely with García Harfuch in the upcoming government, which may have intensified the motivations behind his assassination.
A funeral ceremony was held on Tuesday at the Templo de Guadalupe in Aguascalientes to honor Morales. This was followed by a private burial at Jardines Eternos cemetery, with only close family and friends in attendance. Rosa Icela Rodríguez, head of the Secretary of Security, referred to Morales as a valuable colleague in the field of security and expressed condolences to his family and friends.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing battle against organized crime in Mexico and the serious risks faced by those working in law enforcement.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/mexico/2024/07/24/por-que-el-asesinato-de-milton-morales-figueroa-seria-una-advertencia-para-omar-garcia-harfuch-segun-antonio-nieto/
