Confused Mexican police squads exchange fire with each other

Confused Mexican police squads exchange fire with each other

2012-01-14 05:53:00 GMT+7 (ICT)

VERACRUZ, MEXICO (BNO NEWS) -- A Mexican police squad came under fire from fellow officers on Thursday when they attempted to serve an arrest warrant in the country's east, officials said on Friday. There were no casualties.

The incident occurred on Thursday in the port city of Veracruz, which is located in the eastern state that carries the same name, between members of the Veracruz Investigations Agency and personnel from the Public Security Ministry.

Officers from the Veracruz Investigations Agency were attempting to serve an arrest warrant issued against a local mechanic who was identified as Luis N. But when they arrived at the location and attempted to arrest the individual, N. started screaming that there were men trying to kidnap him.

As a result, witnesses who heard the screams called the local emergency number, prompting the Public Security Ministry to respond to the scene. Upon their arrival and in an effort to rescue the supposed kidnapping victim, security forces from both sides began running through the streets and opened fire at each other.

Officials said the members of the Veracruz Investigations Agency fled the scene to seek refuge at a local building, but the police forces continued their pursuit and surrounded the building. Several gunshots were heard in the area until high-ranking officials clarified the situation.

Public Security Ministry chief Arturo Bermudez Zurita said the incident was the result of 'confusion' between the forces.

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