The recent capture of 'El Mencho' marks a decisive turning point in Mexico's security strategy, which has undergone considerable change under President Claudia Sheinbaum. Supporters of the administration view this as a commendable achievement for the president, Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch, and Secretary of National Defense Ricardo Trevilla Trejo. This shift comes after a period when the country faced severe challenges, characterized by a largely ineffective security approach that did not yield significant results against organized crime.

Two years ago, the Mexican government adopted a security strategy that prioritized addressing the root causes of violence and capturing notorious figures within organized crime, such as Rafael Caro Quintero and Ovidio Guzmán. Despite these efforts, the approach often appeared to permit a degree of impunity for criminal groups, highlighted by the infamous 'Culiacanazo' incident. Critics argue that the previous strategy of 'hugs, not bullets' facilitated a vulnerable environment where criminal organizations operated with minimal consequences, raising questions about the effectiveness of the administration's policies during that period.

The current landscape suggests a controversial pivot towards a more aggressive and confrontational stance against organized crime, which supporters believe could lead to greater safety for citizens. However, this shift will undoubtedly prompt discussions about the long-term implications for human rights and the potential for further conflict in a nation already grappling with deep-rooted issues of violence and accountability. As the government continues to implement these changes, the efficacy and consequences of this new strategy will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics alike.