Mexico City: A Catholic priest in Mexico was killed on Sunday in the southern state of Chiapas after officiating a mass, his religious order and local authorities confirmed. The murder marks the latest incident in a surge of violence gripping the region.
Father Marcelo Perez was leaving the Cuxtitali neighborhood in San Cristobal de las Casas—one of the largest cities in Chiapas—when he was fatally shot. He had been returning to his home church nearby when two individuals on a motorcycle approached his white Ford and opened fire, according to state prosecutors.
“Father Marcelo has been a symbol of resistance, standing with the communities of Chiapas for decades, defending their dignity and rights while working toward real peace,” the Jesuits in Mexico said in a statement.
Rising Violence in Chiapas
Chiapas, once considered relatively peaceful compared to other Mexican states, has seen a sharp increase in violence in recent years. From January to August of this year, the state recorded approximately 500 homicides, up from 309 during the same period last year, according to official data.
Father Perez was an outspoken advocate against organized crime in the region, according to his community. His death is seen as a significant blow to local resistance efforts.
“This region doesn’t just suffer from murders but also forced recruitment into criminal groups, kidnappings, threats, and the looting of its natural resources,” the Jesuits added in their statement.
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Criminal Groups and Migrant Trafficking
Chiapas, which shares a border with Guatemala, has become a hotbed for criminal activity, including drug trafficking and the illegal smuggling of migrants. Criminal organizations have expanded their operations in the area, exacerbating the region’s struggles with violence and lawlessness.
Earlier in October, six migrants were killed when Mexican soldiers mistakenly fired on a convoy they believed to be part of a criminal group. The incident highlighted the dangers faced by both residents and migrants in the region, caught in the crossfire of escalating violence.
