Mexico Demands Answers from U.S. on Covert Drug Lord Arrests

Mexico's attorney general's office has formally requested information from the United States regarding a flight that transported two prominent drug traffickers across the border on July 25, 2024. This request comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations over the covert arrests.

The Mexican authorities are seeking comprehensive details about the flight, including information on the pilot, aircraft specifications, and relevant migration and customs authorizations. This inquiry follows the detention of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, a co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, and a son of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman at a New Mexico airfield.

The Sinaloa Cartel, co-founded by Zambada and Guzman, is one of the world's largest and most powerful drug trafficking organizations. Its operations extend to over 50 countries, and it is estimated to be responsible for up to 40-60% of all illegal drugs consumed in the United States.

Zambada, through his legal representation, has claimed that he was taken against his will. In response, Mexican officials are conducting an investigation to determine if treason was committed through the forcible abduction of a Mexican citizen and their subsequent handover to U.S. authorities.

The statement from Mexico's attorney general's office acknowledges that the U.S. has permitted Mexican authorities to investigate the New Mexico airfield. However, it notes that crucial questions remain unanswered by U.S. officials.

This high-profile arrest marks a significant achievement for U.S. law enforcement. Zambada, who had never spent a day in prison despite his long career in drug trafficking, had a $15 million reward offered by the U.S. State Department for information leading to his capture.

However, the manner of the arrests has caused consternation within the Mexican government, which was neither involved in the operation nor given prior warning. This lack of communication has strained relations between the two countries.

The Sinaloa Cartel, known for its sophisticated operations, has employed various methods for drug smuggling, including tunnels, submarines, and drones. The organization has also diversified its criminal activities to include human trafficking and arms smuggling.

As tensions continue to simmer, both nations face the challenge of addressing this diplomatic rift while maintaining their commitment to combating drug trafficking. The outcome of Mexico's investigation and the U.S. response to the information request will likely shape the future of bilateral cooperation in the ongoing fight against organized crime.