Sinaloa Cartel Internal War Rages Two Years After Mayo Zambada Capture

More than 2,600 homicides and 3,800 disappearances have been documented in Sinaloa since September 2024, following the capture of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, according to a report by International Crisis Group (ICG) Source: Infobae. The internal war between factions continues to fuel violence and disrupt daily life.

War and Factions

The conflict erupted after Zambada was allegedly tricked and flown to the U.S. by Joaquín Guzmán López, son of Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, triggering a battle for control between Los Mayos and Los Chapitos Source: CNN. Four main factions now operate: Los Mayos, Los Chapitos, Chapo Isidro, and El Guano, with over 20 active cells Source: Infobae. Los Mayos have gained ground, but violence has shifted to rural areas Source: Infobae.

Fentanyl Trafficking Continues

Despite the internal strife, fentanyl shipments to the U.S. remain stable, indicating the adaptability of criminal markets Source: Infobae. The ICG report notes that other groups may be filling supply gaps Source: Infobae.

Government Response

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum ordered a military buildup, with over 10,000 troops deployed and more than 2,540 arrests made Source: Heraldo de México. However, critics argue that decapitation strategies exacerbate fragmentation Source: Milenio. The U.S. has pressured Mexico to act, threatening tariffs and intervention Source: La Vanguardia. The ICG warns that political protection remains a key enabler of cartel power Source: Infobae.