In a swift response to the death threats against popular Mexican singer Peso Pluma, authorities in Tijuana announced the arrest of a suspect. The man was apprehended in the northern city of Tijuana, bordering the United States, while he was tampering with one of the banners found in the streets of Tijuana.
The details about the arrest were shared by the Attorney General’s Office of the state of Baja California. The banners were discovered at various locations, including the El Mirador bridge, the Vía Rápida, and the Libertad neighborhood.
Edgar Mendoza, the regional prosecutor of Tijuana, informed the media about the arrest. “Investigations have begun, and one person has been arrested on charges of terrorism. Not so much for the content of the message, but for the fear it instills in society,” Mendoza told reporters.
Uncertainty About Connections
There remains uncertainty regarding the arrested individual’s ties to the criminal group that claimed responsibility for the threats. The banners were signed by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). However, Mendoza noted the arrested party’s affiliations are yet to be established.
Montserrat Caballero, the Mayor of Tijuana, echoed the need for a thorough investigation. She mentioned that the Baja California Attorney General’s Office is currently looking into the matter. Based on their findings, authorities will decide whether Peso Pluma’s scheduled concert on October 14th at Estadio Caliente will proceed.
“The investigation is already with the prosecutor’s office. Once we have the results in hand, we will consider in the coming days whether to continue with the concert or not, for the safety of the singer and, above all, the residents of Tijuana,” Caballero expressed in a media interview.
The Backdrop
It’s worth noting that Peso Pluma, whose real name is Hassan Emilio Kabande Laija, has songs associated with drug trafficking groups. This association and the nature of his lyrics could be the reason behind the threats.
Just hours before Peso Pluma’s debut appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards 2023, the incident came to light.
Mayor Caballero further speculated on the origin of the threats. She wondered if they were placed by members of organized crime offended by some of the artist’s songs or simply by a citizen who doesn’t appreciate Peso Pluma’s music. “Artists set the tone when they glorify crime, and they are aware of the risks they run,” she added.
Peso Pluma is not the only artist threatened by cartels, as this has been a common practice of intimidation pointing to artists praising rival cartels. Unfortunately, some developed into real life-threatening events. The story continues to develop as authorities delve deeper into the motives behind the threats and the implications for future events in the city.