mexican dead
Mexican forensic workers carry decomposed bodies in plastic bags in the northern state of Durango. (file photo)
Mexican security forces have discovered 23 bodies in two neighboring states in the country's west where a fierce tug of war rages on between major drug cartels, officials say.

According to a statement released by state prosecutor in Michoacan on Sunday, nine bodies linked to the Knights Templar cartel were found near the town of Buenavista Tomatlan close to the Jalisco state border.

Michoacan is one of the country's poorest states and is home to traditional drug routes. It is also a major hub for the production of methamphetamine in Mexico.

On Saturday, authorities in the state of Guerrero announced that they have found 14 bodies in the towns of Taxco and San Miguel Totolapan.

In May, President Enrique Pena Nieto ordered a large military presence in Michoacan as the Knight Templar continued to terrorize towns and set ablaze businesses and homes of anyone who opposed its power.

On July 25, Nieto admitted that organized criminal gangs have gained the upper hand in several parts of the country, including the states of Michoacan, Mexico and Guerrero, despite increased military troops in the areas.

More than 70,000 people have been killed in drug-related violence in Mexico since former President Felipe Calderon launched an offensive against Mexico's drug cartels in December 2006.

Nieto has vowed to reduce crime as he continues the campaign against drug cartels.

However, official data show that every month an additional 1,000 people die in violence linked to the country's drug cartels.