23 Nov 2023 | 01:52 AM UTC
Mexico: Gang-related violence possible across Sinaloa State as of evening of Nov. 22 following arrest of a high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel
Criminal violence possible across Sinaloa, Mexico, as of evening of Nov. 22 after arrest of a Sinaloa Cartel leader. Tight security likely.
Violence related to drug-trafficking organizations (DTOs) is possible across Sinaloa State as of the evening of Nov. 22 following the arrest of Nestor Isidro Perez Salas (El Nini), the alleged head of security for the Sinaloa Cartel, in Culiacan, Sinaloa. At 13:27, the Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection (Secretaria de Seguridad y Proteccion Ciudadana, SSPC) announced that they arrested Perez Salas, after an operation involving the Mexican army, navy, and national guard in the Colinas de la Ribera neighborhood; security forces have transferred Isidro to Mexico City.
Heightened security is likely, particularly in Culiacan. Acts of reprisal violence by the Sinaloa Cartel are possible in Sinaloa State over the coming days. These may include attacks on security forces or the general public involving gunfire, explosives, or kidnapping. The Sinaloa Cartel may implement widespread blockades on major roads to disrupt security and economic activity.
Exercise caution if operating in Sinaloa State. Monitor local news sources for developments. If violence occurs, immediately take shelter in a secure, nongovernment building. Strictly heed the directives of authorities. If blockades occur, do not attempt to bypass them; wait for authorities to dismantle them.
In January 2023, the Sinaloa Cartel initiated massive reprisals across Sinaloa State and in Chihuahua, Durango, Nayarit, and Sonora states following the arrest of one of their leaders, Ovidio Guzman. DTO members burned vehicles to blockade roads across the region, opened fire on airplanes, and engaged in armed clashes. At least 29 people were killed.
