Rising Threat: CJNG and Los Chapitos Form Alliance in Mexico’s Drug War
A New Era of Violence
In a significant development in Mexico’s ongoing drug war, two of the country’s most notorious criminal organizations, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and the Los Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, have reportedly formed an alliance. This union, described as a “super cartel,” poses a serious threat not only to Mexico but also to the United States, as it could lead to an increase in drug trafficking and violence across borders.
The DEA‘s Warning
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has issued a stark warning regarding this new alliance. In its latest annual report, the agency highlighted that the collaboration between CJNG and Los Chapitos could significantly alter the balance of power among drug trafficking organizations in Mexico. The report stated, “A strategic alliance between the CJNG and Los Chapitos has the potential to expand these groups’ territories, resources, firepower, and access to corrupt officials.” This shift could exacerbate the already dire situation in Mexico, where drug-related violence has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives over the past two decades.
Historical Context
The CJNG, known for its brutal tactics and rapid expansion, has emerged as one of the most powerful cartels in Mexico since its formation in the early 2010s. Meanwhile, Los Chapitos, led by the sons of the infamous Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, has been struggling to maintain control over the Sinaloa Cartel following their father’s arrest in 2016. The Sinaloa Cartel, once the dominant force in the drug trade, has faced internal strife and competition from rival factions, including the CJNG.
Motivations Behind the Alliance
The recent surge in violence and territorial disputes, particularly with the La Mayiza faction, has prompted this unexpected alliance. La Mayiza has been gaining ground in key regions such as Zacatecas, Sonora, and Baja California, areas that were traditionally under the control of the Sinaloa Cartel. According to Ioan Grillo, an expert on Mexican drug trafficking, the alliance is a strategic move by Los Chapitos to regain lost territory and power. The arrest of two of El Chapito’s half-brothers earlier this year has further weakened their position, making collaboration with CJNG a pragmatic choice.
Implications for the United States
The ramifications of this alliance extend beyond Mexico’s borders. The DEA has expressed concern that the increased cooperation between these two powerful cartels could lead to a surge in drug trafficking into the United States. The report indicated that the northward flow of drugs and the southward trafficking of arms could escalate, complicating the already challenging landscape of U.S. drug enforcement efforts.
The Broader Impact on Mexico
The potential for increased violence in Mexico is alarming. The country has already witnessed an estimated 350,000 to 400,000 deaths related to organized crime between 2006 and 2022. The formation of this super cartel could trigger a new wave of violent clashes as rival factions vie for control over lucrative drug routes and territories.
Moreover, the CJNG and Los Chapitos are not just focused on the domestic market; they have been expanding their operations internationally. The Sinaloa Cartel, despite its internal conflicts, has been successfully penetrating markets in Europe, Asia, and the UK, often collaborating with Eastern European gangs to smuggle cocaine and other drugs.
The Role of Fentanyl
A particularly concerning aspect of this alliance is the ongoing issue of fentanyl trafficking. The DEA’s report revealed that the Sinaloa Cartel has been mixing fentanyl with xylazine, a sedative typically used for animals. This combination has been linked to a higher risk of overdose, further complicating the public health crisis in the United States. The potential for increased fentanyl production and distribution as a result of this alliance could have devastating consequences for communities across the U.S.
Conclusion
The alliance between CJNG and Los Chapitos marks a troubling chapter in the ongoing saga of Mexico’s drug war. As these two powerful factions join forces, the implications for both Mexico and the United States are profound. Increased violence, expanded drug trafficking, and a potential rise in overdose deaths are all on the horizon. As law enforcement agencies grapple with this evolving threat, the need for comprehensive strategies to combat organized crime and drug trafficking has never been more urgent. The situation remains fluid, and the international community will be watching closely as this new super cartel seeks to assert its dominance in the drug trade.
