Mexico: Five musicians killed in Reynosa amid suspected cartel violence

Five musicians from the Mexican city of Reynosa have been found murdered after disappearing earlier this month, in what authorities suspect was a killing carried out by a drug cartel.

The victims were part of Grupo Fugitivo, a band known for performing regional Mexican music, including corridos, which sometimes reference drug cartels.

The musicians went missing on May 25 while they were traveling to a private event. Their families soon reported receiving ransom demands, prompting an investigation.

Mexican officials confirmed that nine suspected members of the Gulf Cartel, a powerful criminal group active in the area, have been arrested in connection with the murders.

Irving Barrios Mojica, the attorney general for the state of Tamaulipas, where Reynosa is located, said the arrests resulted in the seizure of nine firearms and two vehicles.

Authorities are still investigating the reasons behind the killings.

The musicians, aged between 20 and 40, regularly played at local parties and dances.

It remains unclear whether the group was targeted because of the content of their music or because they became victims of the ongoing violence in the region, where the Gulf Cartel has a strong presence.

The Gulf Cartel is listed by the US government as a "global terrorist organisation." In January, the US Embassy in Mexico issued its highest level travel warning for several cities, including Reynosa.

The advisory highlighted the risk of crime, kidnappings, and frequent gun battles in the area.

"Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity, particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo," the US State Department said.

It also noted that local law enforcement has limited ability to respond effectively to these crimes.