From The Rugrats to the Arrows MZ: the armed wings in service of Los Mayos in Mexico
Despite the fall of Ismael El Mayo Zambada, armed factions loyal to him continue to operate in Mexico's criminal world.
The report discusses the enduring power of Ismael El Mayo Zambada's faction within the Sinaloa Cartel, despite his betrayal and subsequent arrest by U.S. authorities over seventeen months ago. Leadership has shifted to his son, Ismael Zambada Sicairos, known as El Mayito Flaco, who now oversees a network of armed operatives committed to defending and expanding their influence in Mexican organized crime. The armed groups associated with Los Mayos remain active, specifically confronting rival factions like Los Chapitos, and are also positioned to engage with authorities both within and outside of Sinaloa.
El Mayito Flaco's rise as the leader has not diminished the street power of various armed cells that continue to assert Los Mayos' presence across different states in Mexico. These groups showcase their weaponry and combat readiness, suggesting a transition and adaptation of leadership within the cartel that allows it to continue operating despite high-profile arrests. The operations of these armed factions highlight ongoing territorial disputes and the strategies employed to maintain their status amidst increasing pressure from rival gangs and law enforcement.
The ongoing conflict exemplified by the clashes between Los Mayos and their rivals illustrates the complex landscape of organized crime in Mexico. The persistence of these armed wings emphasizes how deeply entrenched these criminal organizations are in the fabric of society, affecting local communities and law enforcement efforts. As the battle for control continues, the implications extend beyond Sinaloa, influencing the broader dynamics of organized crime in the country and raising concerns for public safety and security.