The Mexican police have successfully killed "El Mencho," the country's most wanted cartel leader, along with several high-ranking gang members. Despite this significant development, experts believe that the drug trade in Mexico will not be impacted due to the immense economic power that these criminal organizations hold. The cartel's ability to operate at scale reduces the effect of leadership changes on their overall operations.

In recent years, Mexican cartels have expanded their drug manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the production of fentanyl, alongside traditional cocaine trafficking. This shift not only alters the dynamics of drug trafficking in Mexico but also results in a substantial profit for these organizations, with revenues from the drug trade estimated to reach as high as $58 billion annually. This staggering figure positions the cartels as significant players in both the local and global economy, as their illicit activities become deeply ingrained in both the Mexican economy and international drug markets.

As the Mexican government continues to grapple with the challenges posed by organized crime, the death of cartel leaders may garner media attention, but it increasingly appears to be just a temporary setback for the cartels. Their resilience and vast financial resources will likely enable them to adapt quickly, maintaining their operations even with the loss of key figures. The death of "El Mencho" and the ongoing prevalence of drug trafficking further emphasize the need for comprehensive strategies to address organized crime and its devastating impacts on society.