Federal prosecutors in Mexico have confirmed a shocking cover-up involving police, prosecutors, and forensic examiners in the state of Sinaloa. This cover-up was in relation to the murder of an opponent of the state governor, Ruben Rocha. The prosecutors’ statement supports the claims made by imprisoned drug lord Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, who said he was kidnapped and turned over to U.S. authorities by another drug lord.
The victim, Héctor Cuén, was allegedly killed at the same time and place where Zambada was kidnapped. The state governor had previously claimed that Cuén was killed in a botched robbery at a gas station, but federal prosecutors found discrepancies in the evidence presented by state officials. Cuén’s body was cremated immediately, violating standard murder investigation procedures.
The involvement of state police, crime scene investigators, and prosecutors in the cover-up has raised serious questions about the governor’s administration. Governor Rocha, a member of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s ruling Morena Party, has been accused of downplaying the violence and cartel activity in the state. The rivalry between factions of the Sinaloa cartel has led to an increase in violence and insecurity in the region.
Zambada’s betrayal and subsequent capture have intensified the conflict between his followers, known as “Mayitos,” and the followers of Joaquín Guzmán López, also known as the “Chapitos.” The Chapitos, who are the sons of the infamous drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, have been implicated in brutal acts of violence and torture against their rivals.
The events surrounding Zambada’s capture and the subsequent violence in Sinaloa highlight the complex and dangerous nature of cartel activity in Mexico. The involvement of high-ranking officials and the manipulation of evidence to cover up crimes further erode trust in the country’s law enforcement and judicial systems.
As the investigation into these events continues, it is essential for authorities to hold accountable those responsible for the cover-up and ensure justice for the victims of cartel violence. The fight against drug cartels in Mexico requires a comprehensive and coordinated effort at the local, state, and federal levels to address the root causes of cartel activity and prevent further bloodshed in the region.
