Hikers, Campers Warned About Assassins in Parts of Pinal County

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office is warning hikers and campers of a dangerous threat this holiday weekend–cartel assassins.

Sheriff Paul Babeu is recommending anyone using back roads, campsites and trails in western Pinal County to be extra cautious and consider carrying a firearm if they are in any wilderness areas.

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Multiple gun battles in areas south of Pinal County between cartel assassins and rival drug runners have been reported to law enforcement agencies. Deputies have also seen a rise in armed encounters with cartel drug runners, PCSO said.

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“People who think that this is somehow far removed, that it’s happening in Mexico and that we’re all safe here, that’s not the case. This violence is occurring right here in our county,” Babeu said.

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