The drug violence and political corruption that has plagued Tamaulipas , the home state of the Gulf Cartel and Los Zetas , has fueled fears of it becoming a " failed state " and a haven for drug traffickers and criminals . The massacre of 72 migrants and the discovery of mass graves in San Fernando , the assassination of the gubernatorial candidate Rodolfo Torre Cantú , the increasing violence between cartels , and the state 's inability to ensure safety have led some analysts to conclude that " neither the regional nor federal government have control over the territory of Tamaulipas . " Although drug-related violence had existed long before the Mexican Drug War , it often happened in low-profile levels , with the government " looking the other way " in exchange for bribes while drug traffickers went about their business — as long as there was no violence . During the 71-year rule of the Institutional Revolutionary Party ( PRI ) , the Mexican government would conduct customary arrests and allow cartel business to continue
mass graves
2011 San Fernando massacre
Los Zetas