Dark Knight of Jalisco: Mexico’s ‘Batman’ chases motorcycle thieves, sticks them to lampposts

Mexico has its own Batman dedicated to fighting bike thieves.

An unidentified vigilante known as the “Lagos de Moreno Batman” subdued at least five suspected motorcycle thieves in Jalisco state over the past 10 days, tying them to lamp posts with duct tape and leaving the stolen motorcycles nearby, local media reported.The incidents have been reported in the city of Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, and photos began circulating online showing men restrained with tape in public places. Some had their mouths taped shut and showed signs of beatings, and warning signs were placed nearby.Local media reported that the mysterious figure became frustrated with poor law enforcement and began targeting motorcycle thieves. Residents quickly nicknamed him “The Batman of Lagos de Moreno.”Jalisco state prosecutor Salvador González de los Santos confirmed that there had been incidents where young men were tied with signs warning people of what would happen if they continued to steal motorcycles. Investigators are looking into the allegations against them but stressed “at this time they are victims”.National Security Minister Juan Pablo Hernandez said five cases had been recorded, two vehicles had been identified that could be linked to the incidents and no suspects had been detained.The case caused an uproar on social media, with an English-language post about “Lagos Batman” racking up thousands of likes and millions of views.Users compared the anonymous character to comic book vigilantes, while others warned the situation was a sign of frustration with crime and law enforcement.The identity of the mystery man, or whether they were acting alone, is unclear. Authorities are reportedly investigating whether the attack was carried out by multiple people, but it is unclear whether it was a street vigilante campaign, an organized group or something more coordinated.The authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the matter. The man who was found kidnapped reportedly received medical attention, while authorities are still investigating the alleged motorcycle theft and assault.