Iván Valerio Sainz Salazar, known as 'El Mantecas', was detained on January 18 in Badiraguato, Sinaloa, where he was reportedly responsible for the production and distribution of synthetic drugs. His arrest comes amidst ongoing battles for power among drug cartels in Mexico, especially relating to the infamous Sinaloa Cartel, which has seen numerous members arrested in recent years.

Following his capture, the US government leveled accusations against El Mantecas, linking him directly to the Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, led by the sons of Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán, the notorious former leader of the organization. According to a detailed complaint obtained by Milenio, El Mantecas was actively involved in drug production from 2022 until mid-2025, indicating a significant period of activity within the cartel.

The implications of these allegations are profound, as the US continues to take a tough stance on fentanyl trafficking, which has been associated with a public health crisis in the country. The ongoing efforts to dismantle cartel operations could lead to further arrests and heightened tensions in Mexico, as law enforcement ramps up its campaign against drug trafficking networks, which have a significant impact on both nations.