Drone Explosions in Mexico: A Growing Threat From Organized Crime

In the early hours of February 7, an explosion shook the outskirts of Culiacán, Sinaloa. Initial reports from authorities conflicted, but federal officials later confirmed that a drone carrying an explosive device detonated after hitting a vehicle’s fuel tank.

This attack is part of a growing trend of drone warfare by criminal organizations, a tactic that has escalated in recent years across multiple regions in Mexico. The Mexican Army has acknowledged the increasing use of drones by cartels, leading to plans for new counter-drone technology acquisitions.

Key Fact: In 2024 alone, over 980 explosive devices were seized by authorities across Mexico, many of them linked to cartel-operated drones.

Cartels and Drone Warfare: From Sinaloa to Chiapas

Northern Mexico: A New Frontline in Cartel Drone Attacks

On July 7, 2024, Mexico’s Federal Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that cartels are using drones for targeted attacks in the Sonoran Desert.

Key Areas Affected:

• Santa Ana, Altar, Caborca, Sonoyta, and San Luis Río Colorado
• These regions serve as key drug and human trafficking routes

One of the most recent attacks occurred on June 25, when drones dropped grenades in El Claro, the first Mexican town across the U.S. border.

November 14 Incident: Cartel members used drones to drop explosives on a police convoy in San Fernando, Tamaulipas.

Michoacán: Mexico’s Epicenter of Narco Drone Warfare

Michoacán has become ground zero for cartel drone attacks. On August 27, a brutal conflict between the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and Los Viagras led to aerial drone bombings in Buenavista.

How were the drones used?

• Explosive-laden UAVs targeted police patrols and homes
• Highways were blocked, and civilians were terrorized

Military Casualties:

• Defense Secretary Luis Cresencio Sandoval admitted that Mexican soldiers have been wounded and killed in drone attacks—though exact figures remain classified.

In a 2023 report, Michoacán accounted for 50% of all cartel drones intercepted by Mexican authorities.

Civilians Forced to Flee Amid Drone Bombings

August 1, 2024:

• 400 residents of Nuevo Reforma, Chiapas, fled their homes after drones bombed the town square.
• Many sought refuge in churches and shelters in surrounding cities.

May 2023:

• Drone attacks leveled homes in Nuevo Poblado El Caracol, Guerrero.
• 600 people displaced as a result.

According to Insight Crime, cartels use drone attacks to forcibly relocate entire villages, ensuring control over drug trafficking routes and eliminating potential witnesses.

What’s Next? Mexico’s Response to Narco Drones

With cartel drone attacks spreading nationwide, Mexican authorities are scrambling for solutions.

Military Countermeasures:

• The Mexican Army has announced plans to deploy anti-drone technology to affected areas.

Increased Surveillance:

• Officials are implementing new airspace monitoring systems in Michoacán, Sinaloa, and Sonora.

Cross-Border Concerns:

• U.S. security agencies are closely monitoring the expansion of cartel drone tactics, fearing they could be used along the U.S.-Mexico border.

How will Mexico counteract this evolving cartel threat? Stay updated.