Report details drugs, weapons and explosives seized by Mexican Military
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April 06, 2011 12:43 PM
Naxiely Lopez
The Monitor

McALLEN — A news release from Mexico’s Ministry of Defense details the results of a five-day span of gun battles and seizures in the military’s eighth zone, which covers Mexico’s region closest to the Rio Grande Valley.

The document offers insight into the type of drugs, weapons and ammunition members of organized crime are using to carry out their dealings.

According to the report, 25 offenders were arrested, three were killed and one was injured from March 27 through April 2. Of those, at least nine are presumed kidnappers and five people held against their will were freed by Mexican authorities, officials said.

Soldiers seized more than 37 tons of pot, 2.8 tons of cocaine and about 175 grams of crack cocaine. They also found 13 scales — nine of them to measure grams — and seven power presses to seal plastic.

A variety of weapons and ammunition also were recovered during that time span, including 113 guns, 43 handguns, 12,167 cartridges, 391 magazines, two magazine carriers and two gun telescopes, according to the report.

Military-grade weaponry also was seized, including three grenade launchers, 77 grenades, one rocket launcher, a rocket, a crossbow and two tripods.

Cartel members also armed themselves with explosive devices, according to the items seized. Soldiers found 36 electric detonators, 12 meters of detonating cord and two starters for detonators used in construction demolitions, officials said.

Money in American and Mexican currency, totaling nearly $60,000, also was seized, as well as 70 cars, a motorcycle and a camper trailer. Seven cell phones and four radios also were recovered.

Soldiers also found military personnel attire, including 20 uniforms, seven bullet-proof vests and two bulletproof plates.

Twelve camisoles, 27 pants, two overalls, two camouflaged hats, two pairs of boots, a sombrero and six masks were also found during the reported incidents.

But that wasn’t the only thing they found. Seventeen caps with the emblem “C.D.Gâ€