Mexico: 9 killed in drug rehab center

By The Associated Press
Saturday, June 26, 2010 at 5:39 p.m.

MEXICO CITY — An official says nine people were killed when gunmen opened fire in a drug rehabilitation center in the Mexican state of Durango.

State Deputy Attorney General Ramiro Ortiz says among the dead is the center's owner, who appeared to be the main target. Nine others were injured in Saturday's attack in the city of Gomez Palacio.

Ortiz said the nine bodies were found in different parts of the center, including the patio, gymnasium and dorms. The center had 49 patients.

Two weeks ago, gunmen killed 19 people in a drug rehab center in Chihuahua city.

Dozens have died in mass shootings at Mexican rehab clinics in recent years. Police say cartels are exploiting the centers to recruit hitmen and smugglers, threatening to kill those who don't cooperate.

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