The northern Mexican state of Sinaloa is grappling with a brutal wave of cartel violence, leaving at least 30 people dead in the past week. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has pointed a finger directly at the United States, claiming their recent arrest of a key cartel figure is largely responsible for the escalating violence.
The conflict is a power struggle between warring factions of the Sinaloa cartel, ignited after the arrest of two prominent leaders – Joaquín Guzmán López, son of notorious drug lord ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán, and Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada, the cartel’s reclusive leader. Both were captured in the United States in late July. Zambada was apprehended near El Paso, Texas, with Guzmán López reportedly playing a role in his abduction. Zambada, in a letter circulated by his lawyer, claimed he was taken to the US against his will.
The violence in Sinaloa is a stark reminder of the cartel’s power and the devastating impact of their ongoing turf wars. The city of Culiacán, the state capital, has become a battleground, with gun battles erupting on the streets and dead bodies discovered across the city. Schools have been forced to close, businesses shut down early, and many residents are afraid to venture out after dark. Parents, terrified of their children being caught in the crossfire, keep them at home, while teachers also express fear for their safety.
President López Obrador, during his daily press briefing, declared the US operation to capture Zambada “totally illegal” and criticized the lack of communication and coordination. He argued that the US actions have destabilized the region and are creating a dangerous environment. He even suggested that treason charges could be filed against those involved in the operation. Mexico’s president-elect, Claudia Sheinbaum, echoed his sentiment, emphasizing the need for cooperation and communication between the two countries.
This blame game is the latest escalation of tensions between Mexico and the United States. Earlier this month, López Obrador had suspended diplomatic ties with the US and Canadian embassies after ambassadors criticized his judicial reform plan. The recent capture of Zambada has further fueled criticism of López Obrador’s approach to combating cartel violence, which he has repeatedly described as “hugs not bullets.” He has consistently downplayed the threat posed by the cartels and claimed they largely fight among themselves.
Despite his claims, the violence continues to escalate. Cartels are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics, including roadside bombs, armored vehicles, and drones, to maintain their dominance. While López Obrador has publicly appealed for peace and restraint, the bloodshed persists, painting a grim picture of the ongoing struggle against the cartels.
