‘Narco Monkey’ in bulletproof vest killed in cartel shootout in bizarre tribute to gang guards

The spider monkey “El Changuito” was killed along with 11 cartel members in a deadly shootout in the city of Texcaltitlan, Mexico, despite wearing a tiny bulletproof vest at the time

A bloody shootout killed 11 cartel members – as well as one of the gang members’ pet monkey.

The monkey’s owner was among the dead, and the pet – who was wearing a tiny bulletproof vest and camouflage jacket – was lying on its chest.

The owner was a young man in his 20s who was said to be part of Mexico’s notorious crime group, La Familia Michoacana.

A bizarre emotional tribute to the monkey has been shared on social media since the death. It says the animal was called “El Changuito” and was born last year.

It reads, “It wasn’t your turn, friend. Rest in peace.”

Officials found the strange and gruesome scene following a firefight between the cartel members and authorities in Texcaltitlan, a town 60 miles southwest of the capital, Mexico City.

The monkey was found with its arms outstretched as if holding its owner, who was carrying it on their shoulders, reports the Sun.

At this point, the little spider monkey was wearing a khaki hooded jacket, bulletproof vest and diaper.

The fatal shooting occurred as gunmen from La Familia Michoacana fought members of the National Guard and the Attorney General of Mexico State.

A total of 10 men were killed at the scene, another died in hospital and another 10 were arrested, police said Mexico Daily Post.

Three of them are under medical observation due to injuries sustained during the shooting.

According to reports, five of those arrested are men and three are women Infobaewhile another is considered a minor under the age of 15.

Another adult was taken to hospital but no further details were released about him.

Images of the “narco monkey” have gone viral across the internet, with many initially believing they were fake, but police have now confirmed they are real.

The monkey’s owner is said to have been part of the regional head of the security team at La Familia Michoacana, which fled during a police raid earlier this week.

Police seized various weapons, including ammunition, handguns and 20 assault rifles. They also took the monkey’s body.

Specialist veterinarians will perform an autopsy while authorities are due to investigate the likelihood that the spider monkey – a protected species – was trafficked.