Mexico City’s security chief, Pablo Vazquez, reported that a peaceful demonstration turned violent when a group of masked individuals began to engage in destructive actions. Vazquez updated the media on the situation, emphasizing the initially calm nature of the mobilization before it was disrupted.

Authorities apprehended 20 individuals accused of theft and assault, according to Vazquez. Additionally, an inquiry is underway regarding an attack on a journalist from La Jornada newspaper, who claims that police officers were involved in the incident.

Critics of the government expressed their discontent, with one stating, “It’s a corrupt narco-government that wants to defend the corrupt and the cartels instead of the people.”

Earlier in the week, Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum questioned the legitimacy of the protest. During her routine morning briefing, she described the demonstration as “inorganic” and suggested it was financially supported by outside interests.

Earlier this week, Sheinbaum questioned the motivations for the demonstration and said at her regular morning news conference that the protest was “inorganic” and “paid for”.