Clashes broke out in Mexico City on Saturday during a large demonstration denouncing the government's security policy in the face of persistent cartel violence.

The clashes left 120 people injured , including about 100 police officers and about 20 protesters.

The course of the mobilization

Thousands of protesters of all ages answered the call of the "Sombrero Movement," which emerged after the November 1st assassination of Carlos Manzo , the mayor of Uruapan known for his fight against organized crime. Representatives of "Generation Z" (those under 30) also participated in the marches.

The mobilization took place peacefully for several hours before a group, some of whose individuals were hooded, committed violent acts.

Protesters toppled the metal barriers around the National Palace (presidential residence on the Zocalo square) and threw paving stones at riot police. The police responded with tear gas .

Summary and reactions

The capital's security secretary, Pablo Vazquez , confirmed that 100 police officers and 20 protesters were injured. He specified that 40 officers had to be hospitalized for blows and cuts. Twenty people were arrested for theft and assault.

Mr. Vazquez also indicated that an investigation had been opened into the attack on a journalist from the media outlet La Jornada , who accuses police officers of being the perpetrators.

President Claudia Sheinbaum , in office since October 1, 2024, and whose popularity rating remains above 70% after her first year in office, is being heavily criticized for her security strategy, particularly following highly publicized murders in the state of Michoacán.

"This is one of the most corrupt governments we've ever had," said Valentina Ramirez, a student, claiming the government was "a narco-government that sells out and wants to defend the corrupt and the cartels instead of the people."

On Friday, President Sheinbaum criticized the mobilization, calling it "disorganized" and "funded" from abroad.

Symbols of the protesters

1. Sombreros : Several protesters wore sombreros, in homage to Carlos Manzo.
2. Banners : Messages such as "we are all Carlos Manzo" were visible.
3. One Piece Flag : The iconic pirate flag from the Japanese manga One Piece was also displayed, this symbol having become a sign of youth protest around the world.

The protesters confronted the police outside the presidential palace: "You should have protected Carlos Manzo like this!"

The assassination of Carlos Manzo is not an isolated case; Bernardo Bravo , leader of lemon producers in the same agricultural region of Michoacán, was also shot dead at the end of October.