MEXICO : Army Widens Hunt for Leftist Guerrillas

Mexico’s army has sent troops into eastern Mexico, raising concerns that leftist guerrillas might be operating in a third region of the volatile country. But the soldiers’ presence sparked protests from local peasants who complained they were being accused of belonging to a rebel group that does not exist. Armed troops set up checkpoints and combed mountain farms and villages in the border region between Hidalgo and Veracruz states this week. Residents have reported seeing military helicopters and jet fighters flying over the area. Officials said the crackdown was ordered after two weapons caches were discovered in the region earlier this month.