Mexico gang shoot-out leaves dozens dead Published duration 23 May 2015

media caption Tim Allman reports that the area is known to be dominated by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel

At least 43 people have been killed in a shoot-out in the western Mexican state of Michoacan.

Friday's gunfight between security forces and an armed gang took place in Tanhuato near the Jalisco state border.

The violence is thought to be drug-related and officials have said that at least one police officer was killed.

The authorities have been fighting a bloody war with the area's most powerful drug cartel, Jalisco New Generation, for years.

The majority of those killed at a ranch are believed to have been members of the cartel, said National Security Commissioner Monte Alejandro Rubido.

He told reporters that the gunfight had lasted for about three hours and that a number of weapons had been recovered from the scene, including more than 30 rifles.

image copyright Reuters image caption Officials sealed the area around the huge ranch after the fierce battle

The gunbattle began when the police and security forces were checking reports of an "invasion" of the 112-hectare (277 acres) ranch by a group of armed men.

The authorities later called in air and ground support.

Two years ago vigilante groups formed in Michoacan to drive out the Knights Templar drugs cartel. However, last week a former vigilante leader running for mayor in next month's elections was shot dead.

The Jalisco New Generation cartel has increased its presence in the area, with Michoacan and Jalisco becoming among Mexico's most violent states. Gang members are believed to have killed at least 20 police and soldiers since March.

Earlier this month several soldiers were killed when a army helicopter was shot down by the cartel.

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Related Topics Mexico

Drugs trade