
The Sinaloa Cartel’s power struggle turns violent as rival factions desecrate graves in a shocking display of disrespect and brutality.
At a Glance
- A bitter feud between Sinaloa Cartel families has led to grave desecration
- The conflict involves families of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada and Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán
- Elaborate tombs in Sinaloa, including a Zambada family tomb, have been targeted
- The violence has shattered alliances and increased gunfights in Culiacán
- Calls for justice highlight issues of impunity in attacks against journalists
Cartel Power Struggle Escalates to Grave Desecration
In a disturbing turn of events, the Sinaloa Cartel’s internal power struggle has escalated to unprecedented levels of brutality. The recent collapse of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada’s reign has triggered a fierce conflict between his loyalists and those aligned with the sons of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, known as “Los Chapitos.” This power vacuum has led to a shocking new tactic: the desecration of graves belonging to rival factions.
At least two tomb desecrations have occurred, with one involving the removal of remains from a Zambada family tomb. These elaborate burial sites, often resembling small churches or apartments, have become targets in this gruesome display of disrespect. The attacks on these sacred spaces reflect the deep-seated enmity between El Chapo’s sons and those perceived to have cooperated with U.S. authorities against their father.
Fragile Alliances Shattered
The conflict has shattered the fragile alliance that once existed between the Zambadas, Guzmáns, and other cartel factions. This breakdown has led to increased violence and regular gunfights in Culiacán, the capital of Sinaloa state. The streets that once witnessed a delicate balance of power now echo with the sounds of conflict as rival groups vie for control.
“Nothing can be solved by violence.”
These words, attributed to El Mayo himself, ring hollow as his own followers engage in increasingly brutal tactics. The irony is not lost on observers who have watched the cartel’s internal strife spiral out of control.
Legal Troubles and Accusations
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Joaquín Guzmán López and his brother Ovidio are currently engaged in plea negotiations for multiple indictments related to drug trafficking. Meanwhile, El Mayo Zambada claims he was kidnapped and handed over to U.S. authorities by Guzmán López, further fueling the animosity between the factions.
The arrest of El Mayo marks a significant turning point in the cartel’s history. However, experts warn that his capture may do little to diminish the Sinaloa Cartel’s deadly influence or stem the tide of violence.
A Pattern of Desecration
While shocking, the desecration of graves is not unprecedented in cartel conflicts. Past incidents have involved other prominent figures, such as Arturo Beltrán Leyva. The family mausoleum of Dámaso López Nuñez and his son, former allies of El Chapo, has also been destroyed in this latest wave of violence.
“My son and I are innocent of this man’s murder,” said López Nuñez.
López Nuñez’s plea of innocence regarding a separate murder charge underscores the complex web of accusations and counter-accusations that characterize these cartel conflicts. The destruction of his family’s mausoleum serves as a grim reminder of the personal cost of these power struggles.
Implications for Journalism and Justice
The conflict has broader implications beyond the cartel’s internal strife. López Serrano, a key figure in this feud, is not only accused of fentanyl trafficking but is also wanted by Mexican authorities for the murder of journalist Javier Valdez. Valdez, known for his courageous coverage of crime, was killed in 2017, allegedly by López Serrano’s faction.
Calls for López Serrano to stand trial in Mexico for Valdez’s murder highlight the ongoing issues of impunity in attacks against journalists. This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to report on cartel activities and the challenges in bringing perpetrators to justice.
“The most sacred thing is life, we have to take care of it, protect it,” said Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
President López Obrador’s words emphasize the sanctity of life, yet the ongoing violence and desecration of graves stand in stark contrast to this sentiment. As the Sinaloa Cartel’s internal conflict continues to escalate, it remains to be seen how authorities will address this new level of brutality and restore order in the affected regions.