The United States has taken significant steps to combat transnational organized crime by freezing assets belonging to two notorious gangs: Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel and Colombia’s Clan Del Golfo (CDG). The move is part of a broader effort to disrupt the flow of illicit fentanyl and human trafficking into the country.
The Sinaloa Cartel, led by Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, has been accused of setting up legitimate-looking businesses in Mexico to facilitate its fentanyl operation. These businesses allegedly use the proceeds from fentanyl sales to fund their operations across the US-Mexico border.
CDG’s Human Trafficking Network
CDG, known for smuggling people through the notorious Darien Gap in Panama, is also one of Colombia’s largest drug traffickers. The group has been accused of trafficking people and weapons into the country, with over half a million migrants passing through the dense jungle route in 2023.
Treasury’s Efforts
The US Department of the Treasury has taken action against both groups, freezing assets linked to five Colombian nationals and two businesses in Mexico. One business, Nieves y Paletas EVI, operates as a frozen dessert company but is allegedly backed by fentanyl sales proceeds. The other, Farmacia y Mini Super Trinidad, is a pharmacy and supermarket owned by a known drug trafficker.
Consequences for US Citizens
US citizens who patronize these businesses or have dealings with them could face civil or criminal penalties. This move reflects an ongoing effort to disrupt the financing that fuels illicit fentanyl trafficking and human smuggling operations.
Background on Darien Gap
The UN’s refugee agency, UNHCR, has warned of the dangers facing migrants traveling through the Darien Gap, citing reports of violent crime, sexual abuse, and other life-threatening concerns. In June, the US Department of State announced rewards totaling $8 million for information on CDG leaders responsible for trafficking people and weapons.
Cartel-Related Violence
The actions taken by the US have reportedly prompted a rise in cartel-related violence in Mexico in recent weeks, as factions of the Sinaloa gang clashed. The Biden-Harris administration has been criticized by Republicans over its handling of the southern border crisis, with some accusing President Biden of having an “open border” policy that has emboldened drug cartels to flood US streets with fentanyl.
Source: News Week
