Nicaraguan police seek to arrest Karen Celebertti, director of the Miss Nicaragua beauty pageant, for allegedly selecting anti-government contestants to undermine President Daniel Ortega's regime. This follows Sheynnis Palacios' Miss Universe win, which drew attention due to her participation in 2018 protests against Ortega's authoritarian government. Vice President Rosario Murillo criticized the opposition's use of Palacios' victory for political purposes. Celebertti, accused of conspiring with foreign agents, remains at large.

Sebastián Alberti Rossi, brother-in-law of the fugitive alleged drug trafficker Sebastián Marset, known as 'The King of the South', turned himself into Uruguayan authorities on murder charges. Marset has evaded capture from Paraguay to Dubai, with Interpol issuing a Red Notice for Rossi after a failed Bolivian police raid. Rossi, who previously escaped from a Uruguayan prison, will now serve the remainder of his sentence in maximum security. Marset, charged with running an international cocaine and money laundering ring and linked to the assassination of prosecutor Marcelo Pecci, remains at large, with authorities speculating he may be in Africa.

In January 2008, the town of Stephenville, Texas, known as the 'milk capital of the world,' became famous for a series of UFO sightings. The first episode of the new series 'Encounters' by VICE Studios and Netflix, titled 'Messengers,' features local residents recounting their experiences of strange objects in the sky. Witnesses described the objects as a celestial sphere and a flying Dorito. The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) investigated the incident, and radar data obtained by researcher Robert Powell seemed to confirm the accounts of witnesses Steve Allen and Lee Roy Gaitan. Initially, the local Naval Air Station denied any aircraft presence, but the US Air Force later admitted to conducting fighter jet exercises in the area, attributing the initial denial to a communication error. Some witnesses claimed government intimidation to silence them. The radar data confirmed an object without a transponder was present, which could not be identified as any known aircraft.

In January 2008, the town of Stephenville, Texas, became known for a series of UFO sightings, now considered among the most credible in modern times. Witnesses described seeing bright, silent lights and fighter jets in pursuit. The Mutual UFO Network investigated, gathering numerous witness accounts. The U.S. military initially denied, then admitted to conducting training exercises in the area. Radar data obtained by UFO investigator Robert Powell corroborated the sightings, showing objects without transponders. The event is featured in the Netflix series 'Encounters'.

Jaime Maussan, a well-known Latin American extraterrestrial investigator, presented two alleged alien corpses to Mexico's congress, claiming they were not human and around 1000 years old. The corpses, said to be discovered in Peru and studied at the Autonomous National University of Mexico, sparked skepticism due to Maussan's history of promoting dubious extraterrestrial claims. Experts have previously debunked similar cases as fakes or misidentified human remains. The event underscores the need for caution when considering such extraordinary claims, even as governments and organizations like NASA show increased interest in unidentified aerial phenomena.

Numerous pharmacies in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum were shut down for selling counterfeit pills containing dangerous substances such as fentanyl, methamphetamine, and xylazine to tourists without prescriptions. The operation, named 'Operation Albatross,' was a response to citizen complaints and involved the Mexican Navy and the Federal Commission for the Protection Against Sanitary Health Risk. The crackdown followed investigations that linked the pharmacies to major criminal organizations and revealed a range of irregularities. The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning ahead of spring break due to the prevalence of counterfeit medication in Mexico.

In Paraguay, 470 girls aged 10 to 14 gave birth last year, and 40 were hospitalized for abortion, with most pregnancies resulting from familial rape. The Casa Rosa María in Asunción shelters pregnant girls and adolescents, promoting motherhood regardless of age. The country's conservative politics, influenced by the Church and anti-abortion movements, have led to prohibitions on gender education in schools and near-total abortion bans. Public policies for sexual education and prevention are lacking, and the state's absence and cultural issues contribute to a crisis of child and adolescent pregnancy. The Colorado party, which self-identifies as pro-life, continues to govern, reinforcing these conservative stances.

A teddy bear in Mexico was found stuffed with 'lean', a highly addictive substance also known as 'purple drank' or 'sizzurp', which is a combination of cough syrup, candy, and soda. The substance first gained popularity in the Houston hip hop scene.

Daniela Carbone, 47, is charged with making a bomb threat to disrupt her ex-boyfriend's vacation to Miami with his new girlfriend. An audio message with a distorted voice claiming that three bombs were placed on a Miami flight was sent to an airline worker in Argentina on May 21.

Peruvian police seized over 57 kilograms of cocaine marked with Nazi swastikas destined for Europe. The drugs, some bricks labeled with 'HITLER', were discovered by the anti-drug unit of the National Police in the port city of Paita, near the border with Ecuador, hidden in a container's ventilation system filled with asparagus on a Liberia-flagged ship. The container was on its way to Belgium. The cocaine's local production is unclear, and authorities have not disclosed who is responsible for labeling or if any arrests have been made. The ship had previously docked in Guayaquil, Ecuador, a major transshipment point for drugs and the epicenter of a brutal drug cartel war. The use of Nazi iconography and far-right ideology remains prevalent in parts of South America.

A Canadian man, Victor Masson, was found shot to death in a car in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, marking the second tourist murder in the area in less than a week. Previously, three Argentine tourists were attacked with a machete in Laguna de Chacahua, resulting in the death of Benjamín Gamond. These incidents signal a shift in the safety of Oaxaca's Pacific coast, which was once considered safer than the southeastern Mayan Riviera, known for its internal drug market and cartel presence. The Mexican government has deployed soldiers to protect tourist areas, but few have been sent to Oaxaca.

In Guayaquil, Ecuador, a security guard was forcibly strapped with dynamite by unknown assailants, leading to a standoff as police worked to remove and deactivate the explosives. The guard, employed at a jewelry store, was involved in an incident possibly connected to extortion attempts by local criminals. The police successfully detached the bomb and executed a controlled explosion. Guayaquil has seen a rise in violence and use of explosives by criminal groups, with 40 attacks involving explosives reported in 2023, and this being the first case of explosives attached to a person.

The Islas Marias penal colony in Mexico, once known for its harsh conditions and notorious inmates, has been transformed into an all-inclusive resort and bioreserve. This initiative is one of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's controversial projects. The resort is operated by the navy and offers tours of the island's historical sites, including the abandoned prison and labor mines. The island, which was a UNESCO biosphere reserve even during its operation as a prison, now serves as a monument to leftist figures and reflects AMLO's political legacy. The success of the project hinges on its acceptance beyond AMLO's supporter base.

Valentina Trespalacios, a 23-year-old Colombian DJ, was found dead in a suitcase in Bogota, leading to the arrest of John Poulos, a 35-year-old American citizen, in Panama as he tried to flee to Istanbul. Poulos, who had a relationship with Trespalacios, is the prime suspect in her murder, which Colombian authorities suggest was motivated by jealousy and obsession. Poulos is charged with femicide and tampering with evidence but has not accepted the charges. The case has drawn international attention, with Interpol issuing a red notice and Colombian authorities offering a reward for information leading to Poulos' capture.

Alejandro Tenescalco Mejía, an ex-cop implicated in the disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers’ College in Iguala, Mexico, was extradited from the U.S. to Mexico. The case, involving allegations of government cover-ups and police collusion with the Guerreros Unidos cartel, has been unresolved since 2014. A truth commission declared an organized cover-up by authorities in 2022. The arrest of Tenescalco Mejía, who may have coordinated police actions on the night of the disappearances, could provide new insights into the case.

In Paraguay, a country with strict anti-abortion laws and a high rate of child pregnancy, shelters like the Rosa Maria House provide a refuge for pregnant girls, some as young as 10, who are often victims of abuse. The shelter, which is supported by a local parish and donations, offers room, board, and classes to prepare the girls for motherhood. Critics argue that these shelters do not address the complexity of the girls' situations and that the government's failure to implement comprehensive care for abuse victims perpetuates the problem. The influence of religious and conservative groups on legislation is significant, with anti-abortion sentiment deeply rooted in society. Despite the challenges, grassroots movements are emerging to provide sexual education and support for the youth.

Leopoldo Azuara de la Luz, a police officer involved in a car chase that led to the death of 22-year-old former child actor Octavio Ocaña, was found guilty of abuse of authority and aggravated homicide. The incident occurred in October 2021 near Mexico City, where Ocaña allegedly shot himself during the pursuit, according to initial police statements. However, video evidence contradicted this claim, showing police shooting at Ocaña's vehicle. The Mexico State police faced accusations of tampering with the crime scene. Azuara de la Luz's sentencing is set for December 19, while another officer involved remains at large. The case prompted the Ocaña family to successfully advocate for a new law penalizing the sharing of images of dead victims online.

In the Mexican coastal cities of Madero and Tampico, a local legend claims that extraterrestrials from an underwater base called Amupac have protected the area from hurricanes for over 50 years. Despite skepticism from some, including meteorological experts, the belief in alien protectors persists, fueled by historical events and personal testimonies. The legend has become an economic driver, with alien-themed businesses and events like El Día OVNI Tamaulipas, which celebrates unidentified flying objects. The OVNI Scientific Investigation Association of Tamaulipas (AICOT) promotes the legend, and the state government is seeking to officially recognize the celebratory day. While some attribute the region's safety to natural factors or religious protection, the alien narrative has become a significant part of local culture.

An armed robber named Sauro, 41, was arrested while using a toilet in a shopping center after robbing a bus in Mexico, stealing eight cell phones with a fake gun. Police tracked him using surveillance cameras and found him at the Las Americas shopping center in Metepec, Mexico State. Sauro had three active arrest warrants for firearms and robbery charges. The incident drew comparisons to the early 20th-century bandit 'The Tiger of Santa Julia,' who was caught under similar embarrassing circumstances.

In Monte Escobedo, Zacatecas, Mexico, a dog was filmed carrying a human head from a crime scene, an incident confirmed by the state attorney general's office. The head was found inside an ATM booth with notes linking the act to organized crime. Zacatecas, a state used by cartels for drug trafficking and training, has one of Mexico's highest homicide rates. This event reflects the brutal tactics of cartels, such as leaving human remains in public to intimidate, which have been common since the mid-2000s.

Jamaica's broadcasting regulator has announced a ban on radio content that glorifies drugs and crime, aiming to protect the airwaves from harmful content. This move has sparked outrage among Jamaican musicians, who view it as a restriction on creative expression. The ban targets lyrics promoting illegal activities and has been met with skepticism regarding its effectiveness, given past failures of similar measures. Musicians like Romeich and Rvssian have publicly criticized the ban, while others like Skeng seem indifferent, relying on digital platforms like YouTube for their music's distribution.

Costa Rica's President Rodrigo Chaves signed a proposed law to legalize recreational marijuana, which is now with the legislative assembly for analysis and voting. Chaves argues that legalization would undermine criminal control over the weed market, enhance safety for consumers, and provide economic benefits through taxes and new jobs. The bill includes provisions for 'social clubs' and home cultivation of up to six plants. Opposition exists, with politician Fabricio Alvarado expressing concerns over social and security impacts. If passed, Costa Rica would join Uruguay and Canada in legalizing recreational cannabis at the federal level.

Cuba legalized same-sex marriage and adoption following a referendum with 66.87% approval. The historic change is a departure from the island's past persecution of LGBTQ individuals. The new family code also includes rights for the elderly, women, children, and measures against gender violence. President Miguel Díaz-Canel, who supported the referendum, was seen applauding the results. LGBTQ rights advocate Mariela Castro, daughter of Raúl Castro, has been a prominent figure in promoting these rights. The LGBTQ community celebrated the change, signaling a significant shift in Cuban society.

San Jose del Pacifico, a small town in Mexico, has become a global center for magic mushroom tourism, attracting thousands of tourists annually. The town's economy has adapted to this influx, with many locals selling mushrooms to visitors. While mushrooms are technically illegal in Mexico, they are de facto legal in San Jose del Pacifico due to exemptions for indigenous practices. The town manages any issues internally without police intervention. Despite some local opposition, the mushroom trade continues to thrive, with the town maintaining a balance between traditional practices and commercialization.

Mexico arrested three army members, including General José Rodríguez Pérez, for their alleged roles in the 2014 disappearance of 43 students from Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers’ College. This development supports beliefs of military involvement in the incident, which has caused national outrage and skepticism towards the former government's

Erick Valencia Salazar, co-founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and leader of the rival New Plaza Cartel, was arrested in Tapalpa, Jalisco, with weapons and drugs. The U.S. State Department has a $5 million bounty on him and seeks extradition. His criminal career began in 2003 with the Milenio Cartel, and after its dissolution, he co-founded the CJNG with Nemesio Oseguera. Valencia Salazar was previously arrested in 2012, leading to violent reactions in Guadalajara. Released in 2017, he allegedly led the New Plaza Cartel, which has been linked to torture houses and mass graves in a violent conflict with the CJNG. The recent arrest is seen as a victory for Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who faced criticism for not capturing cartel bosses.

99-year-old Catarina Orduña Pérez's dying wish was for a giant phallus statue to be placed on her grave in Misantla, Mexico. Her family fulfilled her request with a 5.5-foot-tall, 600-pound monument as a symbol of her avant-garde spirit and to honor her life. The statue has received mixed reactions from the community, with some appreciating the gesture and others disapproving due to conservative values.

Antonio Álvarez, a power forward for the Astros de Jalisco, experienced his home debut in Guadalajara under strict isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with his family unable to attend in person. Despite the pandemic, the Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional commenced a shortened season in early September, with basketball being a popular sport in Mexico, though not as much as soccer.

The article discusses the pervasive violence in Acapulco, Mexico, where local taxi driver Marino* has become accustomed to the daily horrors of cartel-related violence, including extortion and murder. The piece reflects on the ten-year war the Mexican government has waged against drug cartels, which has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and 28,000 disappearances, drawing a grim comparison to civilian deaths in Iraq. Despite the government's strategy to dismantle cartels by targeting their leaders and deploying security forces, Acapulco remains the country's homicide leader. The article recounts the city's transformation from a glamorous tourist destination to a battleground for cartel wars, particularly following the fragmentation of the Beltrán Leyva cartel. The government's recent initiatives and the capture of key cartel figures have done little to curb the violence, with locals calling for solutions that address the root causes, such as education and employment opportunities.

The article discusses the severe impact of the drug cartel wars in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, particularly on the city's children. It tells the story of David, a nine-year-old boy who witnessed his father's murder and suffers from nightmares indicative of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The city, once the world's most violent, is now facing the long-term consequences of its violent past. Experts like José Luis Flores and Dr. Kathleen O'Connor highlight the lack of attention to the mental health of children affected by the violence. The article also touches on the work of organizations like The Network for Children's Rights and OPI, which provide after-school programs to help children cope with the trauma. Despite a decrease in violence, the psychological scars remain, with children like David and Diana expressing constant fear and sadness due to their experiences.

The article is an interview with 'El Sangres', a commander of a cell of hitmen for the Zetas cartel in Veracruz, Mexico. El Sangres discusses the rise and fall of the Zetas' influence in Veracruz, attributing their decline to a turf war with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and the current governor's betrayal. The Zetas, once dominant, are now losing ground due to the CJNG's growing power and the government's alleged collusion. The article also touches on the violence and kidnappings in Veracruz, including the case of Fernanda Rubí Salcedo, and the broader context of narcopolitics in Mexico. VICE News confirms El Sangres' identity and role within the Zetas. The article highlights the ongoing violence and the impact on families of victims, as well as the corruption and complicity of authorities in the drug war.

The article discusses the negative perception of Donald Trump in Mexico, highlighting the disdain expressed by former Mexican presidents and the current leader, who have compared him to dictators and criticized his derogatory comments about Mexicans. Former President Vicente Fox issued an apology to Trump after previously insulting him and invited him to visit Mexico. The article also mentions Nuevo Leon Governor Jaime Rodriguez's comments on Trump's political strategy and the Mexican government's response to Trump's proposed policies, particularly regarding the border wall and remittances. Former Foreign Minister Jorge Castañeda criticized the Mexican government's passive stance towards Trump and urged for a more active response. The article concludes with a mention of Trump's Cinco de Mayo tweet, which is unlikely to improve his image in Mexico.