Gonzalo Mendoza Gaytán, also known as 'El Sapo', is a high-ranking member of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and is currently identified as a potential successor to Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, or 'El Mencho', who has been a prominent figure leading this violent criminal organization. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has placed Mendoza on their radar due to his significant role in the cartel's operations, particularly for his recruitment strategies, which have allowed the CJNG to substantially increase its foot soldiers. In June 2025, the U.S. authorities highlighted Mendoza's prominence after they designated him and other CJNG leaders as individuals of interest following a major discovery. A recruitment camp located in Teuchitlán, Jalisco, was uncovered, revealing a horrifying array of evidence, including clothing, shoes, bags, and human remains, which underscored the violent methods employed by the cartel to control and expand its ranks. Reports suggest that Mendoza oversaw this horrific camp, commanding lieutenants to train new recruits and execute those who defied orders, showcasing the brutal enforcement of loyalty and control within the CJNG. Mendoza's rise to power reflects the ongoing turmoil and violence associated with drug trafficking in Mexico, as well as the complexities involved in the leadership dynamics within cartels. With ongoing clashes against rival gangs and the Mexican government’s crackdown on drug trafficking, the implications of his potential leadership are significant not only for the CJNG but for the broader landscape of organized crime across Mexico and beyond. The U.S. government's focus on figures like Mendoza highlights the international dimension of the drug trafficking crisis, as authorities seek to dismantle the networks that perpetuate violence and illegal trade across borders.