Cartels armed with US ‘tank busters’ to shoot down helicopters carrying political leaders

DAILY STAR

Bloodthirsty Mexican drug cartels are reportedly arming themselves with ‘tank-busters’ from US military contractors to assert their power.

The criminal organisations are said to be showing off their fire power to coincide with incoming president Claudia Sheinbaum, according to sources. Their arsenal includes the FGM 148 Javelin infrared-guided missile launchers made by US defence contractors to destroy tanks.

Security consultant David Saucedo told USA Today on Sunday that the timing of the reveal, and training to use them, raised the question of who the real power holders are in Mexico. “It’s to show the government, perhaps this one or the incoming one, that they have the ability to launch attacks of this kind with the weaponry they have,” he said.

“It’s their secret weapon, but they can use it if necessary. That’s my impression.”

Javelins are shoulder held anti-armour weapons used to destroy tanks in battle, but they can also take down helicopters and drones.

The Biden administration denies cartels’ assertions about possessing weapons and training, yet Pentagon reports reveal deficiencies in weapon tracking, according to the report.

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