Key Takeaways:
– President Andrés Manuel López Obrador blames the US for the recent surge in cartel violence in Sinaloa.
– The violence erupted after the arrest of two Sinaloa Cartel leaders in the US.
– Despite this, life continues in the city of Culiacan, with businesses reopening and schools resuming classes.
– However, local residents live in fear, concerned for their safety and that of their children.
The Situation in Sinaloa
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador pointed fingers at the United States on Thursday for the recent surge in cartel violence in Sinaloa, a northern state. The violence, which has claimed over 30 lives in just the past week, originated from a power struggle within the Sinaloa Cartel.
This fight for power apparently came about after the US arrested two prominent leaders of the cartel in late July. The arrest resulted in the Cartel’s factions resorting to armed engagements, shooting at each other and security forces in a grim display of power.
Echoing the President’s Concern
These violent events were foreseen following Joaquín Guzmán López’s arrival near El Paso, Texas. Lopez, a son of notorious former Sinaloa Cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, is believed to be involved in the Cartel’s operations. López had arrived with Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, the elder and more reserved leader of the cartel.
Zambada, who claims to have been kidnapped by the younger Guzmán and taken to the US against his will, was arrested and indicted on multiple charges including murder plots and ordering torture.
In Culiacan, the capital of Sinaloa, life carries on amidst the chaos. Despite the fear and the considerable changes to normal routines, most schools have reopened and businesses are closing early. Yet, residents are in constant fear for their safety and that of their children, reportedly not venturing out after dark.
Diplomatic Tension over Operations
At a news briefing, President Obrador staunchly labeled the US as “jointly responsible” for this surge in violence in Sinaloa. He claimed the US was responsible for carrying out the illegal operation to capture Zambada, adding that the Department of Justice agents were anticipating his arrival.
President-Elect Claudia Sheinbaum voiced similar views, emphasizing the need for communication and collaboration between the countries. She asserted we could never accept unilateral decisions from the US, which could be perceived as a breach of trust.
The Impact of “Hugs Not Bullets”
This incident has led to increased criticism of Obrador’s strategy of refusing to confront cartels, a plan he refers to as “hugs not bullets.” His claims that cartels mostly respect Mexican citizens and predominantly fight amongst themselves have been disputed as violence continues to plague Mexico.
Despite the president’s assurances that his approach would reduce violence, the country continues to experience brutal attacks from cartels, employing tactics such as roadside bombs, trenches, homemade armored vehicles, and bomb-dropping drones.
As Obrador’s tenure comes to an end, his promises hang in the air. Last week he publicly asked Sinaloa’s warring factions to act responsibly, believing they would heed his call. Amid these pleas, however, the bloodshed persists.
It is to be seen if the upcoming administration will adopt a different strategy. Will they continue with the controversial “hugs not bullets” approach, or will they favor a more confrontational, hardline stance? As for the ordinary Sinaloan citizen, the hope is for a lasting peace and a safe environment for their families.
In the end, the one truth which holds is that cartel activities continue to pose dire challenges to the U.S.-Mexico relations.