Durango, Mexico — A new settlement known as “El Culiacancito” has emerged on the outskirts of Durango City, becoming a refuge for nearly 1,800 families forced to flee the state of Sinaloa amid escalating cartel violence. Over the past 14 months, the war between factions known as Los Chapitos and La Mayiza has displaced thousands, leaving entire communities abandoned and reshaping the social fabric of northern Mexico.
Families arriving in Durango recount harrowing stories of gun battles, burned homes, and threats that made daily life impossible. Many left behind farmland, businesses, and schools, carrying only what they could transport in trucks and buses. The settlement, nicknamed El Culiacancito by locals, reflects both the origins of its residents and the resilience of those seeking safety.
Authorities in Durango have struggled to respond to the sudden influx. Makeshift housing has sprung up, with families building shelters from wood, tin, and concrete blocks. Municipal officials have coordinated with humanitarian groups to provide food, medical care, and schooling for displaced children. Yet resources remain stretched, and residents face uncertainty about long-term stability.
The arrival of so many Sinaloans has also sparked debate within Durango. While many citizens have welcomed the newcomers, offering donations and support, others worry about the potential spillover of cartel violence. Security patrols have been increased in the area, and state officials insist that protecting displaced families is a priority.
For those living in El Culiacancito, the settlement represents both loss and hope. “We don’t know if we’ll ever return home,” said one resident, “but here at least our children can sleep without fear.”
As the conflict in Sinaloa shows no signs of abating, El Culiacancito stands as a stark reminder of the human toll of Mexico’s ongoing cartel wars.
With information from N+
