Mexican Drug Cartels are among the most powerful and violent criminal organisations in the world. Generating Billions every year, their influence extends far beyond Mexico, affecting global drug markets across the world, including Europe. These cartels also diversify their revenue streams through a variety of illicit and illegal activities including, human trafficking, oil theft and money laundering.
Cartel Hierarchies
These Drug cartels have generated substantial revenue from their activities with the US’s DEA estimating that the cartels earn anywhere from $20-$30 billion dollars every year solely from drug sales in the US alone, allowing them to develop their organisations in every aspect, rendering them more effective and dangerous every year. There are a variety of cartels in Mexico alone, including:
• The Sinaloa Cartel, often considered one of the most powerful organisations. Once led by the infamous drug lord “El-Chapo” up until his arrest. They are known for their extensive trafficking network and sophisticated drug operations. Despite many highlevel arrests withing their enterprise, the cartel has maintained profitability
• Los Zetas, originally formed by defectors from Mexico’s Special Forces, they are known primarily for their sheer brutality and effective military tactics. They were also considered to be one of the most powerful groups in Mexico, however their influence and revenue has declined due to internal splits and the arrests and killings of senior leaders.
• Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This group in particular has grown and risen to power rapidly since their formation in 2009,
ASSASSINATIONS CONDUCTED BY CARTELS
Throughout the years, many politicians and individuals in places of authority have refused to submit to the will of the cartels and have decided to fight back using a variety of means. More times than not, these individuals have been met with tragic consequences with the cartel assassinating dozens of authoritative government figures. Some of them include:
• Luis Donaldo Colosio (1994) - Presidential Candidate - Though the official story attributes his assassination to a lone gunman, many theories suggest that his killing was conducted by powerful interests, possibly including drug cartels, due to his anti-corruption stance and threats to disrupt their operations
• Rodolfo Torre Cantú (2010) Candidate for Governor of Tamaulipas - He was assassinated by gunmen linked to the Gulf Cartel and Los Zetas.
• Maria Santos Gorrostieta Salazar (2012) - Mayor of Tiquicheo, Michoacán - She survived two previous assassination attempts before being kidnapped and murdered. It was said this was likely done by members of the Knights Templar cartel. Her death drew international attention to the risks faced by local politicians who stand up to cartel power.
• José Eduardo Moreira Rodríguez (2012) Coahuila State Official - He was murdered in an act of revenge by the Zetas cartel.
• Silvia Escalera (2013) - Daughter of Former Federal Sports Commissioner - She was kidnapped and killed, reportedly by La Familia Michoacana, as part of a wider strategy to intimidate officials.
CARTEL POWER CAPABILITIES
The cartels power can be significantly reflected though their military might. Much of the top organisations possess military grade weapons, armoured vehicles and even drones. Their arsenal can often be seen to surpass local law enforcement. It is not uncommon for these cartels to be as organised as a military in training and disciplining their soldiers and hitmen, even going as far as having designated units for specific purposes which include death squads, kidnappers and executioners.The cartels are also known for exerting significant influence over local and national politics through corruption, bribery, and intimidation, eliminating anyone that refuses to accept the terms of the cartel