Mexico faces deeply entrenched organized crime, ranking third globally according to the Global Organized Crime Index, with powerful drug cartels at its core. The recent killing of Jalisco cartel leader El Mencho unleashed violent retaliation, mirroring a historical pattern where neutralizing cartel leaders fails to dismantle organizations and instead ignites turf wars. This ongoing violence is fueled by systemic impunity, rampant youth unemployment, and a pervasive disregard for life among cartel members. While the government is implementing initiatives to address poverty and unemployment, a comprehensive strategy targeting the root causes of criminality, rather than solely relying on force, is crucial for breaking cycles of violence.
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It appears there’s been a new development in the ongoing efforts to combat powerful drug cartels in Mexico, with reports suggesting a U.S. military-led group played a role in the recent hunt for “El Mencho,” the elusive leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). While the headlines might suggest a direct U.S. military operation, the reality seems to be a bit more nuanced, pointing towards a collaborative intelligence-gathering effort.
Essentially, a cross-border task force, spearheaded by the U.S. military, has been actively mapping out the intricate networks of these cartels. This task force focuses on gathering intelligence, providing a crucial foundation for operations against these criminal organizations.… Continue reading
Following the reported death of its leader, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel has launched a violent retaliatory offensive. Attacks have devastated parts of Puerto Vallarta, with images showing widespread fires engulfing buses and buildings, prompting a shelter-in-place advisory for American tourists. The cartel’s actions, which also targeted Guadalajara International Airport and Veracruz, are intended to hinder authorities’ operations.
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Under the Trump administration, the use of CIA drones for surveillance of Mexican drug cartels is expanding significantly, extending “well into sovereign Mexico.” This escalation follows Trump’s designation of cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, facilitating a more aggressive counter-narcotics strategy. The drones, equipped with advanced sensors and AI, are primarily used to gather intelligence on cartel operations, including fentanyl production, and this information is shared with Mexican authorities. While lethal action is currently prohibited, the increased surveillance aims to disrupt cartel activities and address the flow of fentanyl into the United States.
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The news of Mexico City’s police chief being shot dead in a suspected drug cartel hit is a stark reminder of the dangerous and deadly reality that law enforcement officials face in Mexico. It is a chilling testament to the power and influence that drug cartels hold over the country, where corruption, violence, and impunity reign supreme.
Imagine dedicating your life to serving and protecting your community, only to be targeted and gunned down in broad daylight, leaving behind a trail of devastation and fear. As I read about Milton Morales Figueroa’s tragic death, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of despair and anger at the state of affairs in Mexico.… Continue reading
Mexico Demands Investigation into US Military-Grade Weapons Being Used by Drug Cartels
As I delve into the news surrounding Mexico’s demand for an investigation into the use of US military-grade weapons by drug cartels, I am struck by the sense of frustration and cynicism expressed by many individuals. From allegations of underhanded deals within law enforcement agencies to suspicions about corrupt military officials, the comments reveal a deep-seated mistrust in both the Mexican and American governments. It seems that the issue at hand is not just about the flow of drugs and weapons, but also about the underlying dynamics of power, profit, and complicity that sustain the illicit drug trade.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood