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-Editorial
As Mexico grapples with escalating cartel violence that has paralyzed businesses, instilled fear among citizens, and led to high-profile assassinations, an unexpected development has surfaced. The Mexican government is reportedly reviewing a petition from Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a longtime leader of the Sinaloa Cartel who is currently imprisoned in the United States. This move raises critical questions about the nation’s ongoing struggle with organized crime and whether external assistance could finally turn the tide against cartel dominance. Many within Mexico and abroad are calling for stronger intervention, with some advocating for U.S. support to dismantle cartel networks more effectively.
Zambada, who was arrested near El Paso, Texas, in July alongside another cartel figure, has formally requested to be returned to Mexico for trial. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexico’s consulate in New York received the request and that the nation’s attorney general is investigating the circumstances of Zambada’s apprehension. According to reports, Zambada claims he was forcibly taken to the U.S. by Joaquín Guzmán López, one of the sons of former cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, before being detained by U.S. authorities.
His legal petition, as reported by Reforma, argues that his transfer to the U.S. has not been legally verified and requests that he be tried in Mexico instead. While Mexico has opened an investigation into whether treason was committed in his extradition, the broader implications of this case remain uncertain.
Amid the rising violence, the possibility of U.S. intervention to combat cartel activity has re-emerged as a contentious issue. Historically, Mexico has been resistant to direct foreign involvement in its domestic security affairs. However, recent events—including the assassination of Minerva Pérez Castro, a prominent fishery industry leader in Ensenada, and cartel extortion forcing business closures all over the country, have intensified the call for external support.
Advocates for U.S. assistance argue that Mexico’s security forces alone have struggled to contain cartel influence, citing widespread corruption, resource limitations, and the sheer firepower of criminal organizations. They propose intelligence-sharing, joint operations, or expanded law enforcement training as viable solutions to enhance Mexico’s ability to combat organized crime. If implemented effectively, this collaboration could provide the necessary support to dismantle major cartel structures and restore order to affected communities.
CJNG Leaves Human Head with Narco Message for Los Mayos and Los Chapitos in Ensenada: “You Are Not Welcome”
In a chilling act of violence, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), led by Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, left behind a human head in Ensenada with a warning to rival factions of the Sinaloa Cartel: “You are not welcome.” This brutal message, delivered less than a week after another similar incident just in January 2025, signals the CJNG’s growing dominance and sends a clear warning to the Sinaloa Cartel’s factions in the region. The gruesome act underscores the escalating violence and turf wars that have torn through Mexico, particularly affecting regions like Ensenada, where organized crime has already caused immense harm to both the economy and the safety of residents.
The rise of such violent tactics is a grim reminder of the struggles Mexico faces in containing the power of cartels. The brutality of these attacks, combined with the larger political backdrop of cartel infighting and external demands for action, further complicates the debate over U.S. assistance.
The Potential Impact of U.S. Involvement
If the Mexican government were to accept U.S. assistance, several potential outcomes could emerge:
- Enhanced Security Capabilities: With U.S. resources, technology, and intelligence-sharing, Mexican forces could be better equipped to dismantle cartel networks. This could lead to quicker arrests of high-profile figures and a more strategic approach to eradicating organized crime.
- Economic Stability and Business Growth: With reduced cartel influence, businesses—especially those in highly affected regions—could operate without fear of extortion or violence. This would boost local economies, encourage investment, and promote regional stability.
- A Drastic Reduction in Violence: Increased pressure on cartels could lead to the capture of key leaders and disrupt organized crime operations, reducing homicides, kidnappings, and violent crime.
- Legal and Political Ramifications: Accepting U.S. assistance might strain diplomatic relations, as national sovereignty is a sensitive issue in Mexico. Critics would argue that foreign intervention sets a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining Mexico’s autonomy.
- Retaliation by Cartels: A more aggressive crackdown with U.S. backing could provoke violent retaliation from cartels, leading to increased attacks on security forces, businesses, and civilians. This could create a short-term escalation in violence before any long-term stability is achieved.
- A Model for Latin America: Should Mexico successfully implement a U.S.-backed security strategy, it could set an example for other countries plagued by cartel violence, such as Colombia and Honduras.
The murder of Minerva Pérez Castro remains a stark reminder of the perils of challenging organized crime. Nearly a year after her assassination, justice has not been served, leaving the people of Ensenada and beyond disillusioned with the government’s ability to protect its citizens. This high-profile case underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy against cartels.
A Turning Point for Mexico’s Security Strategy
President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration has emphasized the importance of respecting national sovereignty, yet the pressure to act is growing. With widespread violence and extortion leaving citizens and businesses vulnerable, the government may have no choice but to reassess its stance.
As Mexico weighs the prospect of U.S. intervention and deliberates Zambada’s petition, the country finds itself at a crossroads. Will foreign involvement finally break the cartels’ grip on Mexico, or will it ignite further violence? One thing is clear: the country desperately needs a robust, multifaceted approach to combat the rampant violence and restore order. Strengthened bilateral cooperation, bolstered by U.S. support, could prove to be the decisive factor in Mexico’s fight against organized crime.
Action is urgently needed to reclaim the nation’s cities from the reign of cartels and ensure that Mexican citizens no longer live under the constant threat of violence and extortion.