The terrible toll of Mexico's war

The two main fronts of this war are key sea ports for the importation of the drugs and Mexican towns and cities close to the United States border.

Cartels are undermining the fabric of Mexico's justice system by targeting judges and police with execution style killings, now a preferred method over mere bribery and corruption.

The United States is providing significant support to the law enforcement efforts of the Mexican government.

The horrible truth is that demand for drugs from within the United States is fuelling the cycle of violence in its southern neighbour.

Australia is not immune, for this war has implications for any nation that forms part of the web of demand for drugs including cocaine.

The battle for control of Mexico's streets will be bloody but should the government not win this war, the global consequences could be too dreadful to contemplate.