Mexican prosecutors have alleged that U.S. authorities entered into a pact with Joaquín Guzmán López, a Mexican drug lord, in exchange for his brother Ovidio’s transfer from a US prison. The accusations follow an unusual incident involving the kidnapping of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, another senior member of the Sinaloa cartel, by Lopez. According to prosecutors, Lopez planned to use Zambada as leverage to get his brother transferred out of U.S. custody.
Prosecutors have requested information from US authorities about the case but claim that they have not received any responses. They also stated that the plane used for the kidnapping had multiple registries and identification numbers, including some that were false. Lopez was apprehended by U.S. authorities in July along with Zambada after flying them to an airport near El Paso, Texas.
It’s worth noting that while Mexican prosecutors have made these allegations, there has been no official confirmation from US authorities. They have denied any involvement in the plot and claimed that they only learned of it after the plane took off from northern Mexico. The investigation is ongoing, with Mexican prosecutors continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
The case has sparked controversy within the Mexican government, which has faced criticism for not being aware of the detentions on U.S. soil until afterwards. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has expressed concerns about US intervention in Mexico’s drug trade, suggesting that it may be contributing to the country’s problems rather than solving them.
Overall, this incident highlights the complex web of relationships between Mexican and U.S. authorities when it comes to fighting organized crime. While both countries have a shared interest in combating drug cartels, their approaches and tactics can sometimes conflict. This case serves as a reminder of the challenges that arise from these interactions and the need for clear communication and cooperation between nations.
In response to this situation, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar stated that Ovidio Guzman is still in prison but not necessarily in the same location. He emphasized that he would be judged according to U.S. law and procedures. Mexican prosecutors are continuing their investigation, interviewing various officials, and examining evidence related to the case.
The allegations made by Mexican prosecutors against US authorities raise questions about the nature of cooperation between the two countries in combating organized crime. While both countries have expressed a commitment to working together on this issue, incidents like this one highlight the need for greater transparency and communication in their dealings.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether U.S. authorities will provide any information or explanation about their involvement in the case. For now, Mexican prosecutors continue to push forward with their inquiry, seeking answers about how Ovidio Guzman was transferred from prison and what role US authorities may have played in facilitating this move. The situation serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in international cooperation on law enforcement issues.
The entire ordeal has also sparked debate within Mexico about its own approach to dealing with drug cartels. Some critics argue that President López Obrador’s reluctance to confront these groups directly has led to situations like this one, where US authorities may be taking matters into their own hands. Others point out that the Mexican government’s lack of awareness about US detentions reflects deeper problems within its law enforcement agencies and intelligence services.
In any case, the controversy surrounding Lopez’s allegations against US authorities underscores the need for better communication and cooperation between Mexico and the United States when it comes to addressing organized crime. By working together more effectively, both countries may be able to reduce the influence of drug cartels and improve public safety in the region. However, this will require a willingness from all parties to engage in open dialogue and share information in a transparent manner.
Ultimately, the outcome of this case will depend on the results of the ongoing investigation by Mexican prosecutors. If their allegations are proven true, it could have significant implications for US-Mexico relations and the way both countries approach the fight against organized crime. On the other hand, if the allegations are found to be unfounded, they may lead to further tensions between the two nations.
Source: AP
