The FBI has formed a task force to investigate the Salvadoran gang Mara Salvatrucha, aka MS-13, a gang which has targeted migrants riding freight trains north in Chiapas. Gang activity is often used as a pretext by the government to justify increased militarization. For background about gangs and militarization, see CIEPAC's Maraphobia (in Spanish). In contrast, see KTLA's article LA Violence Crosses the Line.

Teachers and public health workers have been engaging in massive protests in the streets of Chiapas' capital Tuxtla Gutierez. Teachers are speaking out against police repression of campesinos, the governor's undermining of union organizations, and the lack of fair wages and benefits. Public health workers are protesting against the privatization of the health care system and changes to social security. The teachers strike has resulted in the closing of hundreds of schools and four teachers being held in jail without charge. The governor has launched an intensive propaganda campaign against the teachers, accusing them of corruption and greed. Sources in Spanish: La Cronica and Indymedia Chiapas.

The mayor of San Cristóbal has closed most of the city's bars and nightclubs, as part of a campaign to "clean up" the city and reduce alcohol use. This comes on the heels of his action to ban street vendors and performances from the Zocolo when the PRI came to power in January.  The prohibition of selling in the street has meant that many vendors, already on the margins of the economy, have nowhere to sell. During the city art festival Escaparte on the weekend of May 14th, protestors handed out flyers and petitions, and displayed banners voicing support for San Cris's nightlife scene from local restaurants and tourist organizations.

Subcomandante Marcos recently made headlines in the BBC when he challenged Italian football club Inter Milan to a match. The club has donated sports equipment to the Zapatistas in the past and is considering the offer.