DRUG LORD

(NEWSNATION) — With strongholds in nearly half of the 32 Mexican states and operations in as many as 50 countries, the Sinaloa drug cartel has a larger international footprint than any of its domestic rivals.

At the top of the organization is Ismael Zambada Garcia, also known as, “El Mayo.” Unlike many of Mexico’s top drug lords, Zambada continues to elude authorities and has never spent a day in jail. The U.S. Department of State is offering up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest.

Alongside Zambada are three sons of former Sinaloa leader Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. They’re known as “Los Chapitos.”

The oldest son, Ovidio Guzman Lopez, also known as “El Nuevo Raton” or “The New Mouse,” was considered to be the leader of the cartel’s deadly fentanyl division before his arrest earlier this month. That unit has made the cartel billions and likely funded Guzman’s collection of luxury cars and designer clothing.

Now, both Ovidio and his father are behind bars.
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El Chapo’s two other sons, Iván Archivaldo Guzmán Salazar and Jésus Alfredo Guzmán Salazar, are both on the lam.

Although the Sinaloa cartel is one of Mexico’s oldest and most influential drug-trafficking groups, it’s far from alone.

The Jalisco New Generation cartel (CJNG), a powerful Sinaloa offshoot founded in 2010, has grown its territory and is now considered the second most powerful cartel in Mexico.

It’s leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” is known for founding the criminal organization and building its prominence. He’s accused of ordering several assassinations of Mexican politicians and is currently one of the most wanted men in Mexico.

The U.S. is offering $10 million for “El Mencho’s” arrest, one of the highest amounts ever.