Authorities in Mexico found a massive haul of contraband following a shootout between inmates at Aguarato prison in Culiacán including firearms, improvised explosives, drugs and a Starlink satellite internet modem
Guns, drugs and a Starlink satellite internet modem were all found alongside a hidden underground tunnel in a Mexican prison following a shootout between inmates. The contraband was discovered by federal and state authorities at Aguarato prison in Culiacán.
The seizure led to the discovery of 42 mobile phones, 22 radios and several firearms. Included in the guns were five AK-47s, 14 pistols and a hand grenade, among other improved explosive devices. A Starlink satellite internet modem was also found, used for the service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The Secretariat of Security and Civilian Protection (SSPC) said on X (formerly Twitter) that it arrived at the prison after receiving reports of gunshots at around noon on Wednesday.
Two armed helicopters were reportedly called to the scene to assist in monitoring the situation. The public were asked to avoid the area following the incident.
The SSPC said no injuries or deaths had been reported following the event. Local outlets reported that at least five loud explosions could be heard from inside the prison, with witnesses claiming gunshots went on for over half an hour.
It was also said that six units of the prison, as well as the courtyard, were involved in the confrontation and individuals were seen shooting from the top of the prison buildings.
Working alongside the police, the government agency found a tunnel that was reportedly still under construction. It was said to be five metres deep and 15 metres long, with the body confirming it is intended to be put out of use. Pictures released by the SSPC showed a tunnel entrance with metal reinforcements and a makeshift ladder running down into the passage.
A portion of the drugs seized was suspected to be cocaine, with 181 doses being found, while 141 doses of what was thought to be cannabis were also secured.
Surveillance patrols around Aguarato prison after the incident saw three vehicles being seized. Two of the cars had guns inside them, with one of the vehicles having previously been reported as stolen.
A pickup truck with gunshot holes was also seized after it was found parked in an alley. However, the truck had reportedly not been registered as stolen.
The SSPC said a thorough review of the facility was underway following the shootout. The operation was conducted alongside several bodies including the Secretariat of National Defense, the National Guard and the Navy.
Several raids have been carried out at the prison so far this year, with more than half a million pesos in cash being found during a seizure on May 5. The raid also saw nearly 900 doses of cannabis, 163 knives and 86 mobile phones being secured, alongside 10 modems and other devices for mobile internet.