Mexico set to disarm self-defence groups

(Vatican Radio) The Special Commisioner sent to quell trouble in Mexico's Western State of Michoacan has announced that the disarmament of the Self Defence Forces, which evolved from vigilante groups, starts Monday.

Commissioner Alfredo Castillo explains this is a process of demobilization and disarmament. Anyone found with a gun afer May 10th, will be arrested on the spot.

Authorities stress that this is part of an agreeement which started when the vigilantes became legal and formed into the Self Defence Forces, coming under the direct control of the Army. At that time they were also required to declare and register all of their weapons, so the Mexican Military does have an approximate idea of their firepower capacity.

There's still a role for them, with the option of joining a rural defence force, again under the direct control of Mexico's Armed Forces.
The Self Defence Forces are insisting that the Government continues the process of dismantling drug cartels in this zone and capturing their leaders. Until this is achieved, it won't truly be over...according to them.

Listen to James Blears’ report: