Chilpancingo’s top security official, Germán Reyes Reyes, was arrested for allegedly murdering Mayor Alejandro Arcos Catalán on October 6, just days after Arcos took office.

Reyes, an ex-army captain, denies the charge, calling himself a scapegoat and claiming political motives behind his arrest.

Authorities suspect Reyes may have colluded with the Los Ardillos gang, involved in violent conflicts in Chilpancingo.

The incident challenges Mexico’s practice of appointing former military officers as local police heads, aiming to curb corruption, Mexico News Daily has reported.

Arcos’ murder follows the recent killings of local officials and market vendors in the Guerrero state capital.

Written by B.C. Begley