The article highlights the critical need for Mexico to sever the ties between drug cartels and law enforcement agencies, focusing on preventing organized crime from controlling police departments. Following a significant operation that targeted the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, there is a sense of urgency to exploit this moment of vulnerability within the cartel hierarchy. The author notes that without corrupt police acting as their enforcers, cartels are significantly weakened, underscoring the importance of financial dependence of these criminal organizations on bribery and coercion of law enforcement personnel.

The article also outlines the federal government's dual approach to combating organized crime: launching high-profile operations to capture cartel leaders while simultaneously implementing social programs aimed at deterring youth from joining cartels. However, it critiques the government for not addressing the issue of corrupt police officers who may still serve the interests of cartels. The failure to oversee police integrity allows for the continuation of cartel influence at local levels, exacerbating the challenges faced in maintaining security and order in affected regions.

Finally, the author reflects on the tragic loss of lives among federal forces during a recent confrontation, framing it as a dire consequence of cartel retaliation against state operations. While there may be some institutional victories, such as the recognition of the National Guard as an enemy by cartel accomplices, the ongoing cycle of violence and corruption highlights the urgent need for reform in law enforcement and drug policy in Mexico.