At least 30 lime packing plants in Apatzingán, Michoacán, have indefinitely shut down due to extortion by organized crime, according to the Association of Citrus Growers of the Apatzingán Valley (ACVA).  

 

The ACVA reported that criminal groups are demanding a payment of 2 pesos per kilogram of lime sold, creating an atmosphere of violence and uncertainty for workers and industry leaders. As a result, the offices of the Tianguis Limonero market also remained closed for a week.  

 

Spanish version: Cierran 30 empacadoras de limón en Apatzingán por extorsiones

 

Although the Michoacán Public Security Secretariat has deployed federal forces to strengthen security in the area, producers are calling for greater sensitivity to their plight. In a statement, the ACVA rejected criticism against the sector for not filing formal complaints, emphasizing that many of those responsible already have outstanding arrest warrants.  

 

Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged that the lack of complaints is due to fear of reprisals and announced a comprehensive strategy to combat extortion, which would include prosecuting the crime ex officio.  

 

Lime producers continue to demand security conditions that allow them to resume their activities without risking their lives.