Sinaloa Bans Halloween Costumes Amid Violence

In Sinaloa, Mexico, authorities have prohibited residents from wearing masks or costumes for Halloween due to escalating violence linked to cartel warfare, particularly following the recent arrest of Sinaloa Cartel leader Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada. Security Secretary Gerardo Merida emphasized that the ban aims to prevent confusion with criminals and discourage the glorification of crime, noting that drug traffickers are often viewed as anti-heroes in the region. This decision comes amid a wave of violence that has left hundreds dead or missing since September, prompting the federal government to deploy additional military forces. Other Mexican states, including Baja California and Sonora, have implemented similar measures in recent years in reaction to high crime rates. Authorities in Tijuana also announced strict regulations, including face-covering bans, aimed at enhancing public safety during Halloween festivities. The combination of these measures highlights a broader effort to maintain security in areas plagued by crime and cartel-related violence.