Ismael “Mayo” Zambada, a notorious figure in the world of narcotrafficking, was apprehended on July 25, 2024, in El Paso, Texas, after years of evading law enforcement. His arrest was confirmed by the U.S. Department of Justice, which also announced the capture of Joaquín Guzmán López, the son of his former partner Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Both men face multiple charges related to their leadership roles in the Sinaloa Cartel, including the production and distribution of fentanyl, organized crime, conspiracy to commit murder, money laundering, and trafficking various drugs into the United States, which had placed a $15 million bounty on Zambada’s head.
Early Life and Rise in Narcotrafficking
Zambada’s journey into the narcotics trade began in the 1980s when he was a humble farmer in Sinaloa. His initial involvement was with the Juárez Cartel, where he worked under the leadership of Amado Carrillo Fuentes, known as “El Señor de los Cielos.” Following Carrillo’s death, Zambada seized the opportunity to establish his own faction within the Sinaloa Cartel, gradually gaining control over crucial trafficking routes through Sonora and Baja California. Under his leadership, the cartel expanded its dominance over heroin production and trafficking into the United States.
Leadership Style and Business Approach
Zambada is often characterized by his low-profile demeanor and a business-oriented approach to narcotrafficking, contrasting sharply with the violent tactics employed by other cartels. This strategy allowed him to maintain a significant influence within the Sinaloa Cartel, especially during the decline of rival factions like the Tijuana Cartel. His ability to navigate the complexities of the drug trade while minimizing violence has been noted as a key factor in his longevity and success in the criminal underworld.
The arrest of Zambada amid turmoil within the Sinaloa Cartel follows “El Chapo’s” incarceration. Zambada faced challenges from “Los Chapitos,” Guzmán’s sons, leading to a power struggle. Over time, Zambada lost close associates to law enforcement and rivals. His sons and brother were captured and extradited to the U.S., with Vicente cooperating for a reduced sentence. Sources reveal that Joaquín Guzmán López betrayed them by diverting their flight to Texas instead of Mexico, resulting in Ovidio’s release. Ismael “Mayo” Zambada was negotiating his surrender for over two years
The capture of Ismael “Mayo” Zambada wont make a difference on the failed war on drugs . His arrest wont disrupts the operations of one of the most powerful drug cartels in the world. It highlights the shifting dynamics within the Sinaloa Cartel as it grapples with internal conflicts and external pressures from law enforcement. The implications of Zambada’s detention will only affect the cartel’s structure its still business as usual. The war on drugs is a failure
