Cartel gunmen clash with police in Matamoros near college campus

In Matamoros, Mexico, a violent clash occurred on Wednesday afternoon between cartel gunmen and Tamaulipas state police forces near a university campus. The confrontation involved a group of armed men in various vehicles, including an armored truck, leading to a brief but intense firefight. Local college students were forced to seek shelter as the gunfire erupted. Official reports confirmed the deaths of four gunmen, with three others arrested and an armored vehicle along with several weapons seized by authorities. The incident took place on the western side of Matamoros, close to the highway connecting the city to Reynosa. Following the shootout, state investigators temporarily closed the highway for about two hours to document the crime scene and clear the area. This violent episode comes shortly after the inauguration of new Matamoros Mayor Jose Alberto Granados, raising questions about his stance on cartel violence and whether he will address the ongoing issues or remain silent like his predecessor. The previous mayor, Mario 'La Borrega' Lopez, faced criticism for alleged ties to the Gulf Cartel, which reportedly had members in key city positions during his administration. The Gulf Cartel's influence was highlighted in a recent kidnapping case involving U.S. citizens, where cartel members used city ambulances to transport victims. The situation in Matamoros reflects the ongoing struggle with cartel violence and the challenges faced by local authorities in addressing these issues.