"Fallen Vigilante Leader Lays to Rest, Taking the Armed Citizens' Movement with Him"

Hipolito Mora, one of the last leaders of Mexico's anti-gang citizens' movement, was buried alongside two of his followers, marking the end of armed civilian resistance to drug cartels. The 2013-2014 movement, which initially expelled one cartel only to be replaced by others, is unlikely to be revived due to changing circumstances and cartel infiltration. While some relatives expressed anger and the possibility of another uprising, fear of cartel retaliation prevails. Mora's funeral highlighted the growing power of cartels and the government's failure to confront them. The cartels' dominance has led to extortion, violence, and economic hardships for local farmers and businesses. The funeral procession was heavily guarded, underscoring the dangers of speaking out against cartel control. The priest officiating the funeral emphasized the need for government intervention, as armed self-defense movements are no longer seen as a viable solution.