A suspected gang leader was killed in a targeted attack at a major international airport yesterday, when assailants concealed firearms inside a flower bouquet and opened fire in the arrivals hall. The victim, identified as 42-year-old Ricardo Mendez, was reportedly the head of a transnational drug trafficking network. Police sources say the attack bore the hallmarks of a rival cartel operation, though no group has claimed responsibility.
The assailants, dressed as delivery staff, fled the scene before security forces could respond. One bystander sustained minor injuries. The airport was temporarily locked down, disrupting flights for several hours.
Authorities have launched a manhunt and are reviewing surveillance footage. The incident underscores the persistent threat of organised crime in the region, despite recent government crackdowns.
