Death of El Mencho may strengthen PCC, which is 'more professional' than Mexican cartels, says expert
The death of notorious drug lord El Mencho may create opportunities for Brazilian gang PCC amid rising violence in Mexico.
The recent death of Nemesio Oseguera, popularly known as El Mencho, was reported as a significant blow to organized drug crime both in Mexico and the United States. As the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and one of the most wanted criminals, El Mencho's elimination could lead to a power vacuum within the cartel, sparking potential internal conflicts over succession. Authorities are assessing the impact of this development on drug trafficking dynamics, especially regarding its implications for other criminal organizations in the Americas.
Roberto Uchôa, a former police officer and researcher at the University of Coimbra, suggests that the faction Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) in Brazil could be poised to exploit the instability created by El Mencho's death. With the CJNG expected to engage in internal strife to establish new leadership, the PCC might take advantage of this weakened position, potentially extending its influence into areas previously dominated by the Mexican cartel.
This shift could signify a troubling development for both Brazil and the region, as the PCC is noted for being highly organized and operationally sophisticated. The possibility of Brazilian gangs filling the void left by the CJNG raises concerns about escalated violence within Brazil and across the border, making it essential for law enforcement agencies to monitor and address the evolving landscape of drug trafficking and organized crime in Latin America.