Mexico busts pirated-goods operation linked to drug trade

Monterrey, Mexico, Mar 10 (EFE).- Mexican marines seized three buildings in this northern city where criminals allegedly linked to drug traffickers made illegal copies of music, films and computer software, the military said.

The marines filled two moving vans and several pickup trucks with the pirated goods.

The raid followed the arrest late Monday of two people selling pirated CDs and DVDs in downtown Monterrey, capital of Nuevo Leon state and the headquarters of some of Mexico's corporate giants.

Monterrey also serves as a distribution hub for the criminal organizations that authorities say earn more than 20 million pesos ($1.5 million) a month selling pirated goods in northeastern Mexico.

Marines last week seized some 400 cases of counterfeit whiskey, tequila and vodka set to be delivered to night spots in Monterrey's old quarter.

Commanders in Mexico's 7th Military Zone, which includes Monterrey, say intelligence reports indicate the trade in pirated merchandise is controlled by the country's powerful drug cartels.

The use of the military in law enforcement is part of President Felipe Calderon's strategy to combat the cartels.