Drug-Related Murders in Mexico May Top Last Year's Numbers

CNN is reporting that drug-related killings in Mexico are on course to surpass last year's numbers. Approximately 3,600 people were murdered in the first half of 2009. A total of 6,200 people were killed over the course of 2008.

United States Assistant Attorney General Lanny Breuer, who attended a hearing at the House of Representatives yesterday, stated, "We can not permit President Calderon to fail. This may be a once-in-a-generation opportunity [because of] his courage and willingness to take on the cartels."

When asked if the United States was winning the war on drugs, Breuer replied, "Yes."

However, United States assistance to Mexico could be in jeopardy if recent allegations that the Mexican army has carried out forced disappearances, torture and illegal raids in pursuit of those involved in drug trafficking are true. US officials are warning that it could withhold $100 million in anti-narcotics aid.

Online sources: CNN, Washington Post

Image: Bloomberg