Guadalajara, a city in Mexico that is preparing to host matches for the 2026 World Cup, has been thrust into the spotlight due to an alarming increase in violence linked to drug trafficking. Following the recent death of a prominent drug trafficker, security concerns have escalated, especially since Guadalajara has the highest number of missing persons in the country. The local government is deploying advanced technological measures, including drones and artificial intelligence for surveillance, striving to secure the area ahead of this international event.

The state of Jalisco, home to Guadalajara, is ramping up its security initiatives to combat the threats posed by organized crime, particularly from the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This cartel has recently intensified its violent actions, including roadblocks and attacks on various establishments, which have fueled fears among residents and authorities. This wave of violence comes at a critical time, as the region gears up to welcome thousands of visitors and participants for the World Cup, raising anxieties about safety during such a high-profile event.

As national and local governments mobilize to restore order, citizens are left in distress, worried that ongoing cartel violence could mar the World Cup festivities. The measures being taken reflect not only a response to immediate threats but also the broader challenge of addressing deep-seated issues related to drug trafficking and public safety in Mexico. The implications of these events extend beyond Guadalajara, impacting the perception of safety in the lead-up to one of the world's largest sporting events, which also involves the United States and Canada as host nations alongside Mexico.