Surge in Disappearances in Sinaloa Amid Rival Cartel Violence

The conflict between rival factions of the Sinaloa cartel has led to a dramatic increase in disappearances, with over 200 cases reported in recent months. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is under pressure to escalate security measures amid escalating violence, while also addressing U.S. punitive threats regarding drug trafficking.

In the turmoil of Sinaloa, Mexico, violence has reached alarming levels as rival factions of the notorious Sinaloa drugs cartel vie for control, resulting in a doubling of reported disappearances. Official statistics reveal that more than 200 individuals have gone missing since the feud ignited nearly three months ago, following the arrest of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada in the United States. His faction, referred to as "Los Mayos," alleges betrayal by the "Los Chapitos" faction, led by the son of former cartel kingpin Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán.

In a bid to address the escalation, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has dispatched security chief Omar García Harfuch to Sinaloa. The rising tide of violence poses a significant challenge to Sheinbaum, who took office on October 1 as Mexico's first female president, pledging to uphold a non-confrontational approach to cartel dynamics. However, mounting criticism and pressure from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who demands greater efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking, may force a reevaluation of her strategy.

In recent developments, Sheinbaum's administration has indicated a "zero tolerance" policy towards the crisis. She heralded the security forces for seizing a staggering quantity of fentanyl—the largest bust in Mexico's history, valued at $394 million and weighing over a ton. These actions, aimed at restoring order, coincide with Trump's threats to implement 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico until drug trafficking, particularly of fentanyl, is curtailed.

Additionally, Mexican authorities announced the apprehension of over 5,200 migrants in a single day, likely a reaction to Sheinbaum's commitment to prevent migrant caravans from advancing toward the U.S. This spike in disappearances, compounded by stringent security measures and international pressures, encapsulates the ongoing struggle to regain control in a state rife with cartel violence.