Mexican social security official attacked in Acapulco

MEXICO CITY – Prosecutors in Mexico’s Pacific state of Guerrero say they are investigating the attempted killing of an official at the state office of the Mexican Social Security Institute.

The shooting occurred early Thursday in the parking lot of the institute’s office in downtown Acapulco. The victim was shot twice and was reported in critical condition at a hospital.

Mexican business owners are required to enrol their employees in the social security system so workers can receive government health care and other services.

Guerrero has been plagued by violence and extortion for years, with criminal gangs demanding protection fees from business owners ranging from small tortilla shops to bus drivers and soft drink distributors.