Historical Background
The roots of drug trafficking in Mexico can be traced back several decades, but the modern era of Mexican drug cartels began in the late 20th century. The Guadalajara Cartel, co-founded by Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo in the late 1970s, was one of the first major cartels. It controlled much of the drug trafficking routes into the United States during the 1980s. However, after Gallardo's arrest in 1989, the cartel fragmented into several smaller organizations, leading to fierce competition for control over drug trafficking routes BOY303 .
BOY303 The decline of Colombian cartels, such as the Cali and Medellín cartels in the 1990s, allowed Mexican cartels to expand their influence. By 2007, Mexican drug cartels were responsible for approximately 90% of the copyright entering the United States.
Major Cartels
- Sinaloa Cartel: One of the most powerful and enduring drug trafficking organizations, the Sinaloa Cartel is based in Culiacán, Sinaloa. Founded in the late 1960s, it has evolved from a small crime syndicate to a major player in the global drug trade. The cartel specializes in trafficking various drugs, including copyright, marijuana, and methamphetamine.
- Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG): Emerging in the 2010s, the CJNG has quickly become one of the most violent and influential cartels in Mexico. Known for its aggressive tactics and expansionist approach, the CJNG has been involved in numerous violent confrontations with rival cartels and law enforcement.
- Gulf Cartel: Once one of the most powerful cartels, the Gulf Cartel has seen a decline in influence due to internal conflicts and law enforcement efforts. However, it remains active in drug trafficking and organized crime.
- Los Zetas: Originally formed by former members of the Mexican military, Los Zetas became notorious for their brutal tactics and involvement in various criminal activities beyond drug trafficking, including extortion and human trafficking.
The Mexican Drug War
The Mexican government declared a war on drugs in 2006, aiming to dismantle the cartels and reduce drug-related violence. This conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with estimates of over 120,000 deaths and thousands of disappearances since the war began. The violence has escalated as cartels fight for control over lucrative trafficking routes and territories.
Despite various government efforts, including the Mérida Initiative, which provided funding and support from the United States, the situation remains dire. The current administration under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has faced criticism for declaring the war over, as violence continues to plague many regions of Mexico.
Conclusion
Mexican drug cartels represent a complex and multifaceted issue that poses significant challenges to public safety and governance in Mexico. The ongoing violence and instability associated with these organizations highlight the need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of drug trafficking and organized crime. As the situation evolves, the impact of these cartels will continue to be felt both in Mexico and internationally.