Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico — A shadowy vigilante known as the “Mexican Batman” or “Batman of Lagos de Moreno” has taken the law into his own hands, hunting down suspected motorcycle thieves at night and leaving them bound to street poles with duct tape.

At least five men have been found in the past two weeks tightly wrapped in industrial tape to lampposts in public areas, often with the word “rata” (rat/thief) or “thief” written on their faces, along with drawings such as whiskers or mustaches. Recovered stolen motorcycles are frequently left beside them as evidence.

The incidents have occurred in Lagos de Moreno, a municipality in Jalisco state plagued by high rates of motorcycle theft. Locals frustrated with crime and perceived police inaction have largely celebrated the vigilante’s actions online, dubbing him a real-life dark knight.

Photos circulating widely on social media show the men restrained next to their alleged stolen bikes, sometimes with their mouths taped shut. Authorities say they are treating the bound individuals as victims of assault and kidnapping, and have opened investigations into the vigilante — or possibly a group acting in his name.

Jalisco state prosecutors are actively searching for those responsible, warning that such vigilante tactics undermine the rule of law even as they highlight deep public distrust in the justice system. No arrests of the “Batman” have been reported so far.

This is not the first time a costumed or masked vigilante has emerged in Mexico; similar “Batman” and “Joker”-themed incidents have made headlines in previous years. The latest wave has gone viral, sparking debate over crime, justice, and citizen frustration in the region.