Mexican troops kill 12 alleged cartel members near border
- The 12 people allegedly attacked Mexican troops
- 12 long weapons were recovered along with ammunition
- Tamaulipas has been the site of several cartel conflicts
A man walks towards the Gateway International Bridge, between the cities of Brownsville, Texas, and Matamoros, Tamaulipas on March 15, 2021.
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(NewsNation) — During a shootout near the U.S. border, Mexican troops killed 12 people alleged to be members of a cartel.
Authorities in Tamaulipas said the alleged cartel members attacked members of the military and the operation included the use of a helicopter and drones. Authorities seized 12 long weapons and assorted ammunition after the shootout.
The security department released no additional details on the attack on the soldiers and no group immediately claimed responsibility. The Mexican army said it did not yet have any information on the shootout.
Tamaulipas is home to the Gulf cartel. The area has been hit hard by violence and organized crime, including conflicts between cartels.
Across the border from Texas, it is the same state where four Americans were kidnapped while traveling to Mexico for cosmetic surgery. Two of the Americans were returned, while two died during the kidnapping.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.