The internal conflict within the Sinaloa Cartel between the “Los Mayos” and “Los Chapitos” factions has not only left a trail of violence, displacement, and clashes across various communities in the state; it has also highlighted a practice becoming increasingly visible within criminal structures: the recruitment of Colombian nationals, some of whom possess military training.
Throughout the year, various operations—conducted primarily in southern Sinaloa—have led to the discovery of Colombian nationals among groups allegedly linked to organized crime.
The most recent incident occurred on August 11, when security authorities reported the arrest of 10 individuals in Concordia who were allegedly members of the Sinaloa Cartel. Of those detained, seven were Colombian and three were Mexican.
During the operation, authorities seized a property, as well as 10 long guns, 60 magazines, ammunition of various calibers, tactical gear, and 420 doses of methamphetamine.
