Gustavo Alarcón Sworn in as Chilpancingo Mayor

Gustavo Alarcón was sworn in as the new mayor of Chilpancingo, Mexico, on October 12, following the brutal murder of his predecessor, Alejandro Arcos, who was beheaded just days after taking office. Alarcón, elected alongside Arcos in June, assumes leadership in a city plagued by violence from rival drug gangs, specifically the Ardillos and the Tlacos. Despite expressing a need for more security, Arcos had not made a formal request for protection before his death, and it remains unclear what security measures will be provided to Alarcón. Following Arcos' murder, four other mayors in Mexico sought protection due to escalating violence, including in Guanajuato, where several candidates were killed ahead of elections. The situation in Guerrero has prompted calls for intervention, including peace talks facilitated by local bishops. Alarcón has pledged to work for the community's safety and address the ongoing violence.