Mexican Organized Crime Escalationactive

According to the Federal Labor Law, all companies and employers in the country are required to make profit-sharing payments in May, the Secretariat of Labor and Social Security (STPS) warned, emphasizing that this is a constitutional right that recognizes the direct contribution of workers to the creation of wealth. "This right, historically violated in the past under neoliberal policies, has been strengthened in the administrations of the Transformation. In the past, profit-sharing often became a mere formality that limited workers' effective access to this benefit. However, since the reform on subcontracting approved in April 2021, it has been possible to reverse this situation," the federal agency stated. It affirmed that as a result of these changes, the amount distributed as profit-sharing has increased by a cumulative 150 percent, reaching 259.61 billion pesos in 2024, which represents a "historic advancement" in favor of labor justice and the dignity of work in Mexico. Also read: PRI proposes including mothers of missing persons in the National Human Rights Commission; warns that the "crisis of disappearances" is increasing. The STPS called on companies to comply punctually with this legal obligation and reaffirmed its commitment to monitor the respect for labor rights. It emphasized that workers have access to channels for guidance...

The PRI parliamentary group in the Senate has proposed amending Article 17 of the Law of the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) to include "mothers searching for missing persons" within the advisory council of the organization. The proposal suggests reserving two seats on the advisory council for representatives of collectives or organizations of mothers searching for missing persons, so that they can participate in the development of recommendations, opinions, and guidelines related to human rights and victim support. "The crisis of disappearances in Mexico continues to escalate. According to the National Registry of Missing and Unlocated Persons (RNPDNO), between 1952 and December 2025, there were 387,319 records of missing, unlocated, and located persons," the PRI proposal states. Also read: Amnesty International demands protection for mothers searching for missing persons; warns of a crisis of disappearances in Mexico. It also highlights that the age group most affected corresponds to individuals between 25 and 29 years old, with 17,690 cases of disappearance. Furthermore, it reveals that the disappearance of girls, boys, and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 14 increased by 72 percent between 2023 and 2025. The senators from the PRI party emphasized that the mothers searching for missing persons face violence, institutional indifference, and government neglect, despite their work having led to the discovery of clandestine graves and the recovery of…

The national president of the PAN (National Action Party), Jorge Romero Herrera, stated that the case of Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa who is currently on leave, has ceased to be an isolated incident and has become a reflection of a state infiltrated, captured, and exploited by organized crime. In a statement, the PAN leader argued that Sinaloa is not experiencing an accidental crisis, but rather the consequences of having entrusted public power to structures linked to drug trafficking, and that Morena (the ruling party) has become a "narco party." "While families are searching for their missing loved ones and burying their dead, Morena is protecting politicians accused of operating for drug trafficking," he stated. Also read: Sheinbaum congratulates Mexican mothers on May 10th; "May the happiness you sow return multiplied in embraces," she says. Romero Herrera warned that the accusations in the United States against officials and former officials of Sinaloa reveal a much deeper problem: the alleged criminal infiltration of campaigns, police forces, prosecutor's offices, governments, and political structures within the ruling party. He affirmed that Morena is trying to hide the seriousness of the case behind rhetoric about sovereignty, while abandoning the victims of violence and politically protecting those accused by the United States government. "We are no longer facing isolated cases. We are facing a systematic pattern of criminal infiltration in governments, campaigns, police forces, customs agencies..."

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, once again threatened this Wednesday to intervene in Mexico if Mexican authorities "do not do their job" in combating drug trafficking, stating that his administration would do it for them. "The flow of drugs by sea has been reduced by 97%, and now we have launched the land-based force, which is much easier. You will hear some complaints from certain people, such as representatives from Mexico and other places. But if they are not going to do the job, we will do it, and they understand that," the president stated during an event held at the White House. 🔴#Now | "If they are not going to do the job, we will do it," says Donald Trump about the fight against drug trafficking. The U.S. President reaffirmed that he will confront drug trafficking with a land-based force, which will cause "complaints" from some people in Mexico and other places.… pic.twitter.com/SY0v0mFA1S — Azucena Uresti (@azucenau) May 6, 2026 Trump had previously addressed the issue on several occasions, and in February, he stated that U.S. attacks against drug trafficking organizations could occur in "any place," including throughout Latin America. As noted by AP, the White House's new statements come at a particularly delicate time for bilateral relations, following a state-level anti-drug operation carried out in April in Chihuahua, in which…

Enrique Inzunza Cázarez, a senator from Morena representing Sinaloa, announced this morning that he would not attend the session of the Permanent Commission of the Congress of the Union, because he wants to prevent the opposition from creating a "spectacle" within the legislative building. On social media, Inzunza Cázarez stated his position: "My integrity and truthfulness compel me to communicate that I will not be attending today's session of the Permanent Commission. The reason: I will not give representatives of the conservative right the opportunity to, under the guise of something else, turn the session into an unworthy spectacle for the parliamentary building of the Senate of the Republic, as they are accustomed to doing." The legislator is one of ten public officials accused by the United States government of drug trafficking and ties to the Sinaloa Cartel, a list that also includes the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya. What is the penalty for Enrique Inzunza if he does not attend the session in Congress? Senator Enrique Inzunza, from Morena, if he does not attend the session of the Permanent Commission of the Congress of the Union, will only face minor penalties, such as a deduction from his daily allowance, and in cases of repeated absences, a warning from the President of the legislative body. According to the Regulations of the Permanent Commission and the Constitution, the penalty is a proportional reduction in the legislator's salary for each unjustified absence. An absence is considered to occur when a person does not register to…

The U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson, shared a message from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) on social media regarding the guilty plea of a man for large-scale arms trafficking to a cartel. According to the ambassador, the individual, linked to La Nueva Familia Michoacana, trafficked 24 AK-47-style rifles to Mexico, for which he was found guilty. Also, the DOJ reported that the case was investigated and prosecuted by national security task forces as part of the "Take Back America" operation, and shared an image showing various weapons that were seized. Johnson emphasized that these actions reflect President Donald Trump's commitment to combating cartels and curbing the flow of weapons. He added that under the leadership of Trump and Claudia Sheinbaum, both countries are strengthening their shared security. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on Whatsapp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. aov/bmc

Following the end of the coalition with the PAN, which led to the PRI candidate, Manolo Jiménez, winning the governorship in 2023, the PRI will compete in the upcoming Coahuila elections on June 7th, partnering with the Alianza Democrática de Coahuila, a local political party registered since 1996. As the electoral campaigns begin in this state, which has only been governed by the PRI, the national leader, Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas, warned that "we will not allow these cynical and corrupt members of Morena to enter Coahuila and destroy the peace and tranquility. Here, the people value what they have and know how to recognize when there are results that truly improve their daily lives." "The PRI has delivered results with order, closeness, and responsibility. We know how to govern and take responsibility, and we will continue working with determination to protect the families of Coahuila and maintain the course that works. The security of Coahuila must be defended!" he wrote on social media. Also read: Federal Security Agency spied on Rubén Rocha since his youth; linked him to the Lucio Cabañas guerrilla group. Highlighting this alliance, Moreno Cárdenas stated that "from the very first moment today in Coahuila, we are starting with full force, on the ground, close to the people, and launching this citizen alliance for security. We have the team, the enthusiasm, and a clear path to protect our families and defend tranquility in Coahuila. Let's go for the victory!" L…

The organizational secretary of Morena, Andrés Manuel López Beltrán, responded to the column by journalist Carlos Loret de Mola, titled "Andy and Rocha Moya," which was published in EL UNIVERSAL. Through his Instagram account, the son of the former President of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, asked the reporter to provide some evidence that he and his family received money from criminal groups or officials from Sinaloa. "If you do not present such evidence, we will continue to believe what we have always known. You are a mercenary journalist serving the most petty interests of this country, now those of foreign entities and the underworld of politics." Also read: Morena criticizes the visit of the President of the Community of Madrid, Isabel Díaz Ayuso; PAN defends her. He added that they have presented evidence of their wealth, properties, and businesses, "and the immoral way of making money by fabricating false narratives." "Andy and Rocha Moya" In his article, the columnist for "El Gran Diario de México" revealed that Enrique Díaz Vega, former Secretary of Administration and Finance during the government of Rubén Rocha Moya, gave money to Andrés Manuel and Bobby López Beltrán. "This is what I am told by sources with access to the investigation. They tell me that the López Beltrán brothers sometimes visited Sinaloa. The governor personally received them." Also read: "Maru Campos is lying"; Ariadna Montiel attacks the governor after her comments about defending Rocha. He added that...

The coordinator of the PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party) in the Chamber of Deputies, Rubén Moreira Valdez, demanded that the law be strictly applied in the case of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, following a request for extradition from the U.S. Department of Justice and the Southern District of New York. U.S. authorities have requested the provisional arrest of Rocha Moya for extradition to the United States, where he would be tried for alleged ties to organized crime, specifically a connection to the "Los Chapitos" faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. "What is noteworthy is that in other instances, Mexico has always accepted and applied this, but not this time. What we are demanding is the strict application of the law, and that a thorough investigation be conducted into what happened, because it is obvious that if this is true, it was not the work of a single person," Moreira Valdez commented in an interview with EL UNIVERSAL. Also read: Alito Moreno rejects state security for Rocha Moya; "It turns out that the alleged drug trafficker enjoys personal protection," he says. He stated that a state of suspension of powers should be declared in Sinaloa if it is proven that organized crime participated in the election in which Rocha Moya was elected governor. "If this is true, that organized crime participated in an electoral process, a state of suspension of powers should be declared and new elections should be called," the PRI leader in the Chamber of Deputies explained.

The judge from the Electoral Tribunal of the State of Sinaloa (TEES), Aída Inzunza Cázares, sister of Senator Enrique Inzunza Cázares, drafted the ruling declaring the validity of the 2021 election in Sinaloa, in which the current governor, Rubén Rocha Moya, of the Morena party, won. The ruling acknowledged that there were 206 incidents during the election day, but that only in 23 cases was a permanent suspension of voting required. Despite the fact that both the State Electoral Institute of Sinaloa (IEES) and the state Electoral Tribunal approved and confirmed the existence of these irregularities, the judges minimized the accusations raised in the challenges filed by opposition parties and citizens, unanimously upholding Rubén Rocha's victory on August 17th of that same year during an extraordinary session in which they approved the integrity of the process. "The ruling concluded that all the guiding principles of the electoral process were fully met in the election for the governorship of the state of Sinaloa, namely: freedom of suffrage, the casting of a secret and direct vote, legality, objectivity, the operation of electoral bodies with independence and impartiality, fairness in electoral campaigns, and the principle of maximum publicity," said Judge Aída Inzunza Cázares during that session. Also read: Rubén Rocha did not request personal security, clarifies Harfuch; "he was provided with it based on a recommendation..."

The senator and national president of the PRI, Alito Moreno Cárdenas, criticized the fact that the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, is receiving security and protection from state authorities after temporarily stepping down from his position due to the accusations announced by the United States against him for drug trafficking offenses. "It turns out that this alleged drug trafficker is enjoying personal protection, amidst accusations of alleged ties to organized crime," the PRI leader condemned via social media. In his message, he lamented that while violence is plaguing Sinaloa and all of Mexico, the government of the so-called Fourth Transformation has decided to provide him with security, "as if he were the victim and not the families who are trapped in the crossfire." Also read: MC congressman urges the Senate to approve a salary increase for doctors, teachers, and police officers; salaries would increase up to 17,000 pesos. "There is something very serious here. A politician accused of drug trafficking, even by authorities in the United States, is surrounded by security personnel paid with the taxes of the people, while thousands of Sinaloans are facing criminals on their own," he warned. For this reason, Alito Moreno questioned why the Morena government is protecting Rubén Rocha and, above all, what they are protecting him from. According to the senator, when power protects itself and abandons the citizen, it represents a government that is kneeling before organized crime. Also read: Senate…

The president of the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Deputies, Kenia López Rabadán, called for the application of preventive detention and the freezing of bank accounts to Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, in light of the extradition request made by the United States government, in accordance with the policies promoted by the Mexican government. In a press conference, she recalled that, since the previous administration, the government has promoted reforms to increase the number of crimes for which preventive detention is applied, from nine to 26. This policy, she explained, means "arresting first and then investigating." She added that the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) has also contributed through rulings that "freeze your accounts before a judicial resolution... Why does one logic apply to millions of Mexicans, and a different logic to 10?" Also read: Reduction of working hours from 48 to 40 hours published in the Official Gazette; Laura Itzel Castillo celebrates the decree. "It seems to me that the same legal reasoning should apply, and that legal reasoning should be to ensure that there are no criminals on the streets. Let us demonstrate that we are not a country with "narcogovernments," let us prove it... The ethical problem of this country, at this moment, is whether they will protect or sanction those accused," she stated. López Rabadán pointed out that resolving the accusations made by the U.S. government against the governor of Sinaloa also represents a challenge for the new administration.

The general secretary of the PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party), Carolina Viggiano Austria, denounced that there is a "pact of impunity" surrounding the alleged links between the former governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and organized crime, which is damaging the bilateral relationship with the United States. Furthermore, it places Mexico in a risky situation just before the review of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement). In an interview with EL UNIVERSAL, Senator Viggiano stated that in the case of the request for Rocha Moya's arrest, President Claudia Sheinbaum is trying to protect former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, rather than the country, but is violating the Extradition Treaty between Mexico and the United States. "They are violating an extradition treaty that we have signed since 1978. They are violating it. So, frankly, I don't know what the United States will decide to do regarding this, but the President is putting our commercial relationship, our political relationship, and our neighborly relationship at risk with a country that we have worked so hard with, but which today has placed us in a crisis where she prefers to defend her so-called Fourth Transformation rather than Mexico. It is a huge vulnerability in which our country finds itself today. And furthermore, it is very shameful in the eyes of the world, because I believe there is no doubt that Sinaloa is living under a narco-government," she emphasized. Also read: Rubén Rocha did not request personal security, clarifies Harfuch; "He was offered..."

Culiacán.- Omar García Harfuch, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, confirmed that the former governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, has a personal security detail that was provided to him upon recommendation. García Harfuch led a meeting of the Security Cabinet on Monday with the interim governor of the state, Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde, to reaffirm the support of the federal forces for the state affected by the violence stemming from the conflict between the factions of "La Chapiza" and "La Mayiza" within the Sinaloa Cartel. In a press conference held at the Ninth Military Zone in Culiacán, the official stated that Rocha Moya did not request security, but rather that security personnel were provided to him based on a recommendation. Also read: "We have never experienced obstruction from any official"; Harfuch dismisses suspicions of the Security Cabinet against Rocha. "Some governors or former governors request security measures when they leave office. In this case, it was not a request, but rather a recommendation that he have a security detail," he stated. He indicated that it is not a large security detail, but rather a small number of personnel, although he did not specify the number of National Guard troops involved. 🗣️ "It was not a request, it was a recommendation." Omar García Harfuch details the security operation that Rubén Rocha Moya has. Although he did not provide an exact number due to confidentiality, the Secretary of Security confirmed that it is only a small security escort…

Amid accusations from the United States government against 10 Mexican officials for alleged ties to organized crime, Ariadna Montiel Reyes was sworn in as the new national leader of Morena, warning that the party will not tolerate corruption by 2027. However, who has served as the leaders of Morena, and who nominated Rubén Rocha Moya as the candidate for governor of Sinaloa? Martí Batres Guadarrama was the first formal leader of Morena, leading the party between 2014 and 2015. During his tenure, the movement solidified its official registration and participated for the first time in federal elections. Also read: "I am leaving happy and satisfied with what has been achieved": Luisa Alcalde calls for unity with Sheinbaum amid tensions with the US. Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the founder of Morena, led the party from 2015 to 2017, during which time he positioned the party as the main opposition force in Mexico and outlined the project that would lead him to the presidency of the Republic in 2018. Yeidckol Polevnsky served as the president of Morena from 2017 to 2020, a period during which the party experienced significant expansion with López Obrador's election as president and the acquisition of a legislative majority in the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies in 2018. Alfonso Ramírez Cuéllar served as the interim president of Morena from January to November 2020, a period marked by a lack of consensus among the various…

Luisa María Alcalde Luján, legal advisor to the President of the Republic, stated that the United States has not provided any evidence to substantiate the urgency for the arrest and extradition of the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine state officials and former officials accused of alleged links to drug trafficking. In a presidential press conference, she reported that the Attorney General's Office (FGR) has informed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) that it is necessary to request that the Southern District Court of New York provide this information. "The Attorney General's Office determines that, at this time, no element or evidence has been presented to demonstrate the urgency. Therefore, the request is not properly justified, and it is necessary to request additional information, precisely to establish the urgency. If the urgency is proven, then the Attorney General's Office can present the case to a judge. And the judge, after reviewing the evidence, can order: either pre-trial detention, provisional arrest, or some other precautionary measure, and that is when this 60-day process begins. Also read: In the case of Rocha, the principle of confidentiality was violated, accuses Alcalde. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, given that there are currently no elements to determine the urgency, needs to request that the requesting country provide those elements so that they can be presented to a judge."

President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that former presidents Ernesto Zedillo (PRI) and Felipe Calderón (PAN) allowed for interference by the United States in Mexico. In a press conference, she explained that Francisco Labastida, a former PRI presidential candidate, wrote in his book about how Zedillo requested a loan from the United States and, for that reason, did not support his campaign. "Labastida says that because the government did not support him, he could not win, but also that the government did not support him because Zedillo negotiated $40 billion against the popular vote. Well, if that's not interference, then what is?" she said. Also read: Sheinbaum celebrates a "time of principles" after the appointment of Ariadna Montiel in Morena; accuses a campaign against the movement. Regarding the former PAN president, she pointed to the "Fast and Furious" operation, which involved introducing approximately 2,000 weapons with tracking devices into the country, with the intention of locating criminal groups that were using them. "Calderón, who allowed the DEA to operate on Mexican territory, made an agreement with Obama for what was called 'Fast and Furious.' Well, if that's not interference, then what is?" she stated. She also criticized "Labastida, who is talking about his good governance in Sinaloa on all media outlets," and about the difficult situation the state is facing due to violence and the extradition request for Governor Rubén Rocha Moya. Also read: Letici…

Culiacán, Sinaloa – Sinaloa recorded 15 murders during the first weekend after Rubén Rocha Moya stepped down from the governorship due to allegations of ties to "Los Chapitos" of the Sinaloa Cartel. Last Friday, when the Morena party member requested a leave of absence for more than a month, at least four people were victims of intentional homicide in various locations throughout the state, according to preliminary figures from the Secretariat for Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC). On Saturday, when the local Congress approved Rocha Moya's leave and swore in Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde as interim governor, Sinaloa added three more murders, including that of Andrey Adelaido Padilla Palafox, a teacher and writer who was shot while driving a sedan in the city of Culiacán. Also read: Rocha Case: Security Cabinet travels to Sinaloa; will meet with the new governor, announces Sheinbaum. Meanwhile, yesterday, Sunday, was the most violent day in Sinaloa so far this month, with eight murders recorded in the state, according to the daily count based on reports from the state prosecutor's offices. Among the incidents of violence reported, two shootings occurred near and within the Tres Ríos sector, one of the most frequented areas of the Sinaloan capital, resulting in the deaths of three people who were shot with firearms. In light of this situation, military personnel deployed in…

Leticia Ramírez Amaya, the newly appointed head of the Secretariat for Well-being, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue strengthening the Fourth Transformation and announced the upcoming dates for the disbursement of funds for the Well-being programs. During the morning press conference led by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, Ramírez Amaya stated, "I am grateful for the opportunity to work at the Secretariat for Well-being to continue strengthening the Fourth Transformation." In that regard, she explained that beneficiaries whose last names begin with the letters A through D, E, and F will receive their payments starting Monday, May 4th, through Friday, May 8th. Also read: Sheinbaum denies meeting with AMLO during her tour in Palenque; accuses him of "misogynistic tendencies." She further detailed that those with last names starting with the letters G through M will receive their payments from Monday, May 11th, through Friday, May 15th; those with last names starting with the letters M through R will receive their payments from Monday, May 18th, through Friday, May 22nd; and those with last names starting with the letters S through Z will receive their payments from May 25th through Wednesday, May 27th. She emphasized that currently, 32 million beneficiaries are receiving some form of social program, and an investment of 104.768 billion pesos has been allocated for the disbursement of social support for the months of May and June. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. em/apr

President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo denied having met with former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador during her trip to Palenque, Chiapas, to "seek guidance," and accused him of displaying "elements of misogyny." During her morning press conference in the Treasury Hall of the National Palace, Sheinbaum Pardo said, "It made me laugh. We went to Palenque because it was scheduled, because we plan these trips (...) Oh, the President went to seek guidance." She also clarified that there would be nothing wrong with meeting with the former president, "but I did not meet with him. Oh no, but she went to seek guidance. They are already directing national policy from Palenque." "The truth is, it shows a lot of misogyny, as if the President couldn't make decisions about the future of the country (...) It's really funny." "The people of Mexico must be certain that the President will not back down, that their President will defend sovereignty above all else, and that we will also act with justice, as we have done so far," she added. Regarding her meeting with the Secretary of Anticorruption and Good Governance, Raquel Buenrostro Sánchez, she clarified that "we went to Palenque and stayed at the hotel near the Maya Train, and Raquel accompanied me because on Thursday she told me, 'President, I urgently need to discuss some issues with you.'" "I told her, 'You know what, I've had a very busy week, come with us and see what we're doing.' So..."

Ariadna Montiel Reyes was unanimously elected as the president of the National Executive Committee for the period 2026-2029 during the eighth extraordinary session of the National Congress of Morena. In her inaugural speech, she announced that her leadership would not tolerate corruption in any government affiliated with the party. Addressing governors, mayors, legislators, and her fellow leaders, the former head of Social Welfare stated that anyone engaging in such practices would be removed from the movement, because, according to her, there is no place for corruption within Morena. "This leadership will not tolerate corruption in any Morena government. It is time for a period of self-reflection, and if anyone detects corruption, they must report it. Those who engage in these practices must be removed. Let us remember where we came from; the people have given us their trust, and we must honor it. The people's resources belong to the people. There is no place for corrupt individuals in Morena." Montiel Reyes also stated that the profiles of those seeking to be candidates in the 2027 electoral process must be impeccable, and that the surveys must ensure not only opportunities for those with recognition or fame, but also for those who respect the mandate of not engaging in acts of corruption. "Those who aspire to be Coordinators of the Defense of the Transformation, and those who become candidates in 2027, must have an impeccable track record. We have decided on a clear and democratic method: that it is the people, and no one else, who choose our..."

Culiacán, Sinaloa – The Sinaloan bands resonated yesterday in Culiacán, amidst the resignation of the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, to commemorate Jesús Malverde, the patron saint of drug traffickers and the poor. Hundreds of believers commemorated the 117th anniversary of the Sinaloan's death, which coincides with the Day of the Holy Cross, with music, beer, wine, and dollars. Songs like "Ya llegué de donde andaba," "Lamberto Quintero," "El Sinaloense," "La vida no vale nada," "Juan Colorado," "Caminos de Michoacán," and "Las Mañanitas" were among those with which local and U.S. worshippers paid tribute to Malverde in front of his altar, just a few meters from the Government Palace, which Rocha Moya, a member of the Morena party, left just on Friday, following accusations from Washington regarding alleged ties to the Los Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. Also read: "Los frijoleros," caught between political maneuvering and organized crime. As every year, the devotees flocked to the iconic chapel early in the morning to cheer, dance, and pray to the figure also known as the Robin Hood of Sinaloa, with fervor: "Oh, Malverde, my lord, I ask for your mercy and that you alleviate my pain! You who dwell in glory and are close to God, hear the suffering of this humble sinner." Floral arrangements and wreaths with messages like "Long Live Chuyito" and "J. TREC" were placed throughout the day at the building on Independencia Street, which was adorned with messages of...

Culiacán, Sinaloa – Two days have passed since Rubén Rocha Moya stepped down from his position as governor, and the people of Sinaloa remain uncertain about the future direction of the state. Empty streets, military and police checkpoints day and night, closed businesses, and ongoing violence continue to be the reality, at least in Culiacán. While Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde was sworn in as interim governor on Friday, a man driving a sedan was shot and killed with nine bullets in the Pedregal del Humaya area, just six kilometers from the state legislature building, which is dominated by the Morena party and its allies, the PVEM and PT. Also read: Viral video in Culiacán was not a celebration of Rocha's departure; the images are from a march in 2025. Just as Rocha Moya was conducting official business at the Government Palace, another death occurred when a man was directly attacked in front of the Super Ley shopping center, located on the Lola Beltrán Boulevard. In her first speech as state governor, Bonilla Valverde described the accusations of drug trafficking against Rocha Moya, her mentor, as "false" and "malicious." He once told her that she was "a waitress in a small restaurant" before becoming a local deputy for Morena, a position she was selected for through a lottery: "Governor, I express my solidarity with you. We trust in the innocence of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya," she said as she left the building. Since Friday night, Rocha Moya has disappeared from the public scene in Sinaloa, and...

This time, the usual chorus of "You are not alone!" that Morena often uses when defending one of its own was not heard. At its VIII Extraordinary National Congress, held yesterday at the World Trade Center in Mexico City, not even the name of Rubén Rocha Moya, accused by the United States government of ties to drug trafficking, was mentioned. Although the governor of Sinaloa, who is currently on leave, did not attend, his presence was felt at the Morena gathering, but there was no gesture of support or solidarity. Also read: Morena members reject Isabel Díaz Ayuso's visit to Mexico; they say she "represents the Spanish far-right." In the end, some delegates from Sinaloa attempted to organize a show of support for Rocha Moya, but the effort was unsuccessful as it did not resonate with the attendees. However, Deputy Dolores Padierna spoke out in defense of Morena to reject the claim that it is a "drug party." Although Morena leaders denied any negative impact from the accusations leveled against the "Fourth Transformation" by the Southern District Court of New York, the atmosphere was not as celebratory as Morena members had hoped, despite the small musical performance organized at the main entrance. Also read: Change in Morena leadership, "more of the same": Alejandro Moreno; demands that the INE cancel Morena's registration for being a "drug party." Senators, deputies, and other Morena politicians distanced themselves from the governor and left his future in the hands of the Prosecutor's Office...

The president of the PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party), Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas, stated that the change in leadership at Morena is "more of the same." "For Morena to understand: even by changing their name, they will not be able to wash away the blood on their hands for forming a "narcotic alliance" with organized crime to bring "narco-politicians" to power." On social media, he pointed out that "the renewal of their leadership is simply an internal maneuver to simulate that something is changing, when in reality, everything remains the same," he warned. Also read: Federation of Workers' Unions supports Sheinbaum; reaffirms union unity and commitment to labor rights. He said that Morena intends to distract, buy time, and deceive those who still want to believe them, but the problem is not the names in an office, but what they represent and what they have done. Alejandro Moreno stated that the narrative of a constant offensive against the "Fourth Transformation" (a political movement) is an invention. "In addition to being corrupt, they are liars, hypocrites, vile, petty, and criminals. They have no mother or shame. They invent a 'constant offensive' against their 'movement' to try to hide their unspeakable connections with organized crime. They are so cynical that they come out to defend the very "narco-politicians" that they promoted, covered up, protected, and that they are now defending with the entire apparatus of the State," he denounced. Also read: Faced with violent incidents in schools, there is an urgent need to create a national protocol from the SEP (Ministry of Public Education); they are calling for...

In a brand new backpack, the over 3,000 members of the Morena party who gathered this Sunday at the World Trade Center in Mexico City received three books published by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and current President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. The books are "Grandeza" and "¡Gracias!" published by the former president, and "Diario de una Transición Histórica," published by President Claudia Sheinbaum. In addition, they received "100 postulates of a Morenista," and a document outlining the actions they should undertake as representatives of the party. Also read: A shadow named Rubén Rocha; a chronicle of a Morena party congress that marginalized him. The members shared with EL UNIVERSAL the contents of the backpack they were given. Inside, they also found a t-shirt, a cap with the party's logos, and a sheet of stickers with the inscription "We all arrived." At the extraordinary meeting of the Morena National Congress, the new leadership of the National Executive Committee was elected, following the departure of Luisa María Alcalde, who will be joining the Legal Counsel of the Presidency of the Republic. What is the value of the books by AMLO and Claudia Sheinbaum? The books given to the members can be found in various bookstores, where the price usually varies slightly. "Grandeza": This book can be found for as low as 348 pesos on websites like Amazon, El Sótano, or Gandhi, although the audiobook can cost considerably more...

Unlike other members of the Morena party who have faced difficulties and have been supported with the rallying cry of "You are not alone!", in this instance, the eighth Extraordinary National Congress of Morena did not even mention the name of Rubén Rocha Moya, who has been accused by the United States government of having ties to drug trafficking. The shadow of the suspended governor of Sinaloa was present at the Morena conclave, but there was not a single gesture of support or solidarity from those present. At the end of the session, some delegates from Sinaloa attempted to organize a show of support for Rocha Moya, but the attempt failed as it did not resonate with the rest of the attendees. Also read: Enrique Inzunza, a senator accused of drug trafficking in the US, calls for defending the homeland; "Mexico will not accept interference," he warns. Although the leaders of Morena tried to deny any negative impact from the blow to the "Fourth Transformation" received from the United States, the atmosphere was tense, and the mood was not as celebratory as the Morena leaders had hoped. In short, some Morena members commented that the party needs to get rid of some "ills" and demonstrate through actions that it is against corruption and illegal activities. What was abundant at the Congress was the support and solidarity with President Claudia Sheinbaum and former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, as well as a call to honor the legacy of the man from Tabasco. Also read: We will not bow our heads to defend the homeland,…

The former national leader of Morena, Luisa María Alcalde Luján, spoke about her departure from the party's national leadership and stated that "I am leaving happy, proud, and satisfied with what has been achieved." During the VIII Extraordinary National Congress, Alcalde Luján expressed that "I am grateful to the party members and to those who give life and shape to Morena, to those who are not always in the spotlight, but who support this movement every day." "I had the honor and privilege of being invited by the President of Mexico to join her cabinet as head of the Legal Counsel, which is why I am changing roles today, but never my principles," she explained. Also read: Enrique Inzunza, a senator accused of drug trafficking in the US, calls for defending the nation; "Mexico will not accept interference," he warns. Regarding the accusations made by the United States government against the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, the Morena member stated that President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo needs unity and solidarity within the movement. "It is up to all of us to stand together in defending the transformation project that has cost so many years and so many lives to build. We cannot ignore that there are those who would like to see a Mexico that is kneeling, subjugated, and surrendered," she added. "We have an opposition that shows no respect or love for Mexico; on the contrary, they dedicate themselves to spreading lies and slander here and abroad, and they are eager to see..."

Enrique Inzunza Cázarez, a Morena senator accused of drug trafficking in the United States, supported the statement made by the son of former President López Obrador, José Ramón López Beltrán, who warned that there are external narratives and hegemonic powers that are trying to influence Mexico through pressure and disinformation. On social media, Inzunza stated that the nation can only be defended through republican principles and love for the people of Mexico, "the only and true sovereign power." According to the legislator, the country does not accept, nor will it ever accept, interference or impositions from those who, due to their lack of understanding of its greatness and historical significance, believe that it is possible to "subordinate and subjugate" it. Also read: Rocha Moya's license does not resolve the drug trafficking crisis, accuses the PAN; insists on the dismantling of power structures in Sinaloa. In his message, he emphasized that, by sovereign decision, those who "collaborate with foreign interests" no longer govern and will never govern again, and he criticized them for supposedly being conservative and neoliberal. Inzunza Cázarez recognized the leadership of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, whom he described as an honest and patriotic leader who guarantees rights and defends sovereignty, serving as the "legitimate voice of an entire nation." "That is what Generalísimo José María Morelos y Pavón left us in 'The Sentiments of the Nation.' Based on that thought and the liberal doctrine of the esteemed Benito Juárez and the men of the Reform, we build..."

The Catholic Church called for the protection of children in Mexico, emphasizing that the protection, education, and support of children should be a priority and a moral imperative for everyone. "In every child, there is an inviolable dignity that does not depend on their circumstances, but on the love with which they were created," it stated. "Whoever welcomes a child welcomes Christ himself; whoever neglects, harms, or abandons a child betrays that living presence of God." Through its editorial section, "From the Faith," the Church indicated that children are subjects of love, care, and rights that must be respected at all times. Also read: Morena party members leave Rubén Rocha alone in the face of drug trafficking allegations; "We don't know him," say legislators. It added that the realities faced by many children in Mexico, such as violence, abandonment, poverty, and family fragmentation, demand that we question whether we are truly fulfilling our mission to protect them. In this regard, it recalled the words of Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes, the Archbishop of Mexico, who recently stated that "we cannot become accustomed to a child suffering; each of them is a gift from God with which we must embrace our commitment." Therefore, it emphasized that the family remains the first place where one learns to love and be loved, and that the Church community has a role to play in supporting, educating, and protecting. Also read: Rocha Moya's leave of absence does not resolve the drug trafficking crisis, accusations…

Senators, deputies, and other politicians from the Morena party distanced themselves from the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and left his future in the hands of the Attorney General's Office (FGR). In separate interviews, various Morena figures expressed that now that Rocha Moya has been removed from his position, he must face the consequences of any findings that result from the FGR's investigations. Only Senator Gerardo Fernández Noroña expressed his confidence in the former governor's innocence, but warned that if he is found guilty, "there will be no impunity, either in this case or in any other." Also read: PAN accuses that Rocha Moya's leave of absence does not resolve the drug trafficking crisis; insists on the suspension of powers in Sinaloa. Morena Senator Manuel Huerta Ladrón de Guevara said that he trusts the FGR, but when asked if he trusts Rubén Rocha, he replied, "I don't know him." Deputy Dolores Padierna stated that "fortunately," Rocha Moya has already requested a leave of absence and "is now subject to what the authorities say, and they must do their job." Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. em

The national leader of the PAN party, Jorge Romero Herrera, warned that the fact that Rubén Rocha Moya has requested a leave of absence as governor of Sinaloa does not resolve the problem of a potential intervention by organized crime in the state's elections. In a statement, the PAN party president stated that the formal accusations presented in the United States against the former governor and nine other officials for drug trafficking offenses "confirm a situation that has been warned about for years and that today takes on an institutional dimension." "It is regrettable that investigations of this magnitude come from another country before our own authorities. This completely changes the scope of the problem: we are no longer just talking about corruption, but about the possible distortion of a new democratic process through the participation of criminal groups," he warned. Also read: Dolores Padierna claims the Rocha case is a media distraction to cover up CIA activities in Chihuahua; acknowledges "misunderstandings" within Morena. According to Romero Herrera, one of the most sensitive aspects of the allegations is the potential interference of organized crime in the 2021 electoral process. According to the US accusation, the former governor made a deal with the Sinaloa Cartel to maintain his power. For this reason, the president of the PAN argued that the Senate of the Republic must urgently evaluate the possibility of suspending the powers of the government in Sinaloa, as a constitutional mechanism...

Morena is holding its VIII Extraordinary National Congress at the World Trade Center (WTC) in Mexico City, where it will elect a new leader to replace Luisa María Alcalde, who has joined the cabinet of the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum. Among the candidates is Ariadna Montiel, who recently stepped down from her position as head of the Ministry of Welfare on April 28th, and met with the Minister of Public Education, Mario Delgado, a former Morena leader from 2020 to 2024. "I am sure that our entire membership will support her," he commented. This political event is taking place against the backdrop of accusations made by the U.S. Department of Justice against the Morena governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other officials, regarding possible drug trafficking and possession of firearms. Also read: Lawyers explain whether Rubén Rocha can be prosecuted now that he has requested a leave of absence; he must be impeached or resign, they say. The person elected will hold the position until October 1, 2027. Follow this live coverage from EL UNIVERSAL and don't miss any details: 🗣️ "I consider this to be a media spectacle to cover up something more serious, namely the CIA's involvement in Chihuahua." Dolores Padierna, a Morena congresswoman, reacted to the accusations made by the U.S. government against Rubén Rocha and acknowledged that Morena has made "mistakes" in... pic.twitter.com/l0Gw4YJpcO — El Universal (@El_Universal_Mx) May ...

Following the request by the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, for a temporary leave of absence from his position to allow the Attorney General's Office (FGR) to conduct the necessary investigations against him for alleged drug trafficking and arms trafficking, a debate began on social media regarding whether he still possessed constitutional immunity. To clarify this doubt, EL UNIVERSAL spoke with lawyers José Mario de la Garza, Melissa Ayala García, and Walter Piñeiro Bertello, who agreed that this could be a maneuver to allow for the exercise of criminal proceedings. Rocha Moya, without immunity According to the legal expert José Mario de la Garza, based on precedents from the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) from 2014 and 2017, and articles 111 and 112 of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, as well as the granting of his leave by the Sinaloa state legislature, the state governor no longer has the immunity afforded by constitutional protection. Also read: Rocha and the mayor of Culiacán request leave after FGR message; "I will not allow them to use me to harm the 4T," says the governor. "The Supreme Court, in some isolated precedents, has stated that the approval of a leave implies the lifting of procedural immunity (constitutional protection) precisely because the person is no longer holding public office. Therefore, the FGR could initiate criminal proceedings against Rocha Moya," he explained. The lawyer from the Escuela Libre de Derecho further differentiated…

The Secretariat of Labor and Social Security has proposed a democratic and immediate solution to the conflict between Nacional Monte de Piedad and its union, as negotiations have reached a "stalemate" after seven months of strike action. "This strike has been and continues to be of the utmost attention and concern to the Mexican government... a solution is not foreseen in the short term, neither within the framework of negotiations nor in the judicial sphere, where neither party has requested the legal recognition of the strike," commented the agency, headed by Marath Bolaños. The Secretariat urged both parties to accept a proposed solution issued by the authorities, which addresses the core issues in this conflict. Also read: "It's official! On Labor Day, a gradual reduction of the workweek to 40 hours begins; decree published in the Official Gazette." "The proposal would be drafted by the Secretariat of Labor and the Federal Center. The spirit and content of this ruling will honor the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the Federal Labor Law, the history of Nacional Monte de Piedad, and will also honor the aspiration of all to secure the future of the institution and to restore a work environment that is fully legal, peaceful, democratic, and harmonious," she stated. Furthermore, she proposed that the ruling be submitted to a general and secret vote by the employees of Nacional Monte de Piedad, and that they be the ones to...

Just over a month before the 2026 FIFA World Cup and with the arrival of its citizens, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued a series of recommendations to ensure safety during their stay in the country. The embassy, headed by Ambassador Ronald Johnson, shared the emergency number 911 for contacting the police, fire department, and medical services. "Call 911 if you are reporting a crime in progress or if someone is in immediate danger," he said. Also read: Case of Rubén Rocha: Enrique Inzunza rejects requesting a leave of absence in the Senate. The diplomatic mission highlighted the permanent assistance available to U.S. citizens in Mexico. "If possible, have the name, date of birth, and passport number of the U.S. citizen readily available," it requested. "The U.S. Embassy is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide emergency support to U.S. citizens. You can contact us by calling +5255 2579 2000," it emphasized. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on Whatsapp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. nro/bmc

Following the request for leave by the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha, and its approval by the state Congress, the General Coordinator for Policy and Government at the Presidency, Arturo Zaldívar, explained how it would be applied. Through his social media channels, the retired minister pointed out that some information suggesting that a governor and a municipal president on leave still have "immunity" is incorrect. This also applies to the leave requested by the Mayor of Culiacán, Juan de Dios Gámez Díaz. Read also: From Rocha Moya's misogynistic comments to the governorship of Sinaloa; Who is Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde? "Procedural immunity, often incorrectly referred to as 'immunity,' is a guarantee for certain categories of public servants to prevent them from being prosecuted criminally without the Chamber of Deputies issuing a declaration of admissibility that lifts the procedural immunity, as stipulated in Article 111 of the Constitution," he explained. "The 'immunity' protects the function, not the person. Someone who takes a leave of absence is no longer exercising that function, and therefore, can be detained like any other person, as they no longer have procedural immunity. There are precedents from the Federal Judiciary in this regard," Zaldívar added. Arturo Zaldívar's statement comes amidst a public debate about the legal implications of leave from elected positions and its legal consequences, particularly following the decision by the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya…

Palenque, Chiapas. "On Monday morning," replied President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo regarding the leave of absence requested by the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha, who has been implicated by the United States for alleged ties to drug trafficking organizations. Upon arriving at the informational session for the Gertrudis Bocanegra scholarship program, Sheinbaum Pardo avoided commenting on the case of Governor Rocha, whose leave of absence was approved by the Congress of Sinaloa. -"The Governor of Sinaloa requested a leave of absence. Did you recommend that he request a leave of absence?" she was asked upon arriving at the Interdisciplinary Engineering Unit in Palenque. Also read: Enrique Inzunza remains missing; he has not requested a leave of absence in the Senate following accusations from the US regarding alleged connections to drug cartels. -"On Monday morning," replied the President of the Federal Executive. -"Is there security in the state?" she was asked, but she avoided answering. In a session lasting less than five minutes, the Congress of Sinaloa approved this Saturday the leave of absence requested by Governor Rubén Rocha Moya to step down from his position and be investigated for alleged connections to the Sinaloa Cartel. By unanimous vote, the deputies, mostly from the Morena party, quickly approved and without debate the request made by the governor on Friday night through a message on social media. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion articles, and more, directly from your mobile device.

The deputy Laura Ballesteros (MC) stated that now that the Congress of Sinaloa has approved granting Governor Rubén Rocha Moya a temporary leave of absence due to the accusations from the United States, they must proceed with the removal of his immunity. "The first step was his leave of absence, but now the process of removing his immunity must follow. The removal of immunity should happen immediately because they must face justice," she said. She also criticized Citlalli Hernández, the commissioner for elections from the Morena party, for defending the governor on leave, despite the accusations of alleged links to drug trafficking. Read also: Rocha and the mayor of Cualiacán request leave of absence following a message from the Attorney General's Office; "I will not allow them to use me to harm the 4T," says the governor. "It is very strange that Citlali Hernández herself, a leader within Morena, is still defending this alleged criminal and his network of criminals, claiming that it is very unfair and concerning that the government of the United States is calling them to account without any evidence," she said. She questioned why the Mexican government and Morena support and celebrate the arrest and criminal proceedings against Genaro García Luna by U.S. authorities, but dismiss the accusations against Rocha Moya. "What is striking is that when criminals like García Luna are judged and accused by the United States, they raise a fuss, they celebrate it, and even use it as an example, but if it is a criminal of…"

The Morena senator, Enrique Inzunza, who has been accused by the U.S. Attorney's Office for his alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel, remains missing and has not yet requested a leave of absence to step down from his position, unlike the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha, and the mayor of Culiacán, who both requested leaves of absence the previous day, but are maintaining their legal immunity. The Senate's governing board, presided over by Laura Itzel Castillo, has referred the matter to the Permanent Commission of the Congress, where it will be voted on in the commission's next session. As of Saturday morning, the board had not received any communication from the Sinaloa senator. The last time he was seen was at the last Senate session on April 29th, when he was present for the roll call and attended a meeting of the Morena party caucus. After noon, no one knew his whereabouts, as he disappeared from his offices. Also read: Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde appointed interim governor of Sinaloa; takes oath of office at the state congress. According to some reports on social media, he was seen on Thursday, April 30th, at a seafood restaurant in Mexico City. The last message on his X (formerly Twitter) account quoted the philosopher Seneca, alluding to personal resilience in the face of adversity. The second-to-last tweet, posted on Wednesday, April 29th, when the case involving him and the Sinaloa Cartel broke, stated that the accusations were false and malicious, but also referenced former President López Obrador. Also read: Mayor of Culiacán requests a leave of absence for more than 10 days following accusations of…

Elements of the Mexican Navy (Semar), in coordination with other institutions, located and eradicated nine marijuana plantations near Cerro Picacho del Diablo in the Sierra San Pedro Mártir mountain range in Baja California. These actions were the result of security and intelligence operations conducted by the naval personnel to locate areas used for drug production in order to prevent its distribution. During these operations, 67 kilograms of marijuana were eradicated from an area of 24,983 square meters. A drying shed was also found, containing four bags, each weighing 10 kilograms, filled with marijuana, as well as 70 kilograms of loose marijuana. These items are believed to belong to a criminal network operating in San Quintín, Baja California. Also read: Weapons, luxury vehicles, tigers, deer, and peacocks seized in Edomex; a woman was also arrested after a search warrant was executed. Semar emphasized that in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking, and in light of the increasing consumption and popularity of various illegal drugs worldwide, operations are being carried out to locate, secure, and destroy illicit plantations. The agency stated that it contributes to the collective effort to combat drug production in the country, weakening the production capabilities of criminal groups and preventing the distribution of drugs, thereby ensuring that they do not reach…

Palenque, Chiapas.- "We love the licenciado (Andrés Manuel López Obrador)," say residents of Palenque, where the former President of Mexico resides in his retirement. At 7:00 AM, the sound of macaws can be heard, businesses open, and a heat that could reach up to 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon is felt. In Palenque, people thank Andrés Manuel López Obrador for bringing "development" to this Chiapanecan city: "He built a university, he did many things." They also whisper that when President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo visits Palenque, her phone and internet connection "go down." Also read: Sheinbaum and the CNTE of Chiapas agree to meet at the National Palace on May 11th; teachers threaten a boycott of the World Cup. Those who work around the estate "La Chingada," where López Obrador resides, are reserved and try not to talk about "the licenciado." Almost two years before the 2024 presidential elections, a banner with the image of the former candidate Xóchitl Gálvez hangs from a house 20 meters from "La Chingada" on the Palenque-Pakalná avenue, sending a message in the place where López Obrador rests. Sheinbaum's visit to Palenque President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has been on a tour of Palenque since Friday, where she inaugurated the "La Ceiba" Ecopark and oversaw the connection of the Maya Train with the Interoceanic Isthmus of Tehuantepec Train. Even in her speech yesterday, the head of the federal executive took the opportunity to greet López Obrador...

The PAN (National Action Party) demanded that a travel alert be issued for Rubén Rocha Moya and Juan de Dios Gámez, the governor and mayor of Culiacán, respectively, to prevent them from "fleeing the country." They stated that these measures would prevent a possible escape, as happened in the cases of Fernando Farías Laguna, who traveled to Argentina, or Hernán Bermúdez, who fled to Paraguay. Jorge Triana, spokesperson for the PAN's National Executive Committee, said that the government of the Republic should issue a travel alert and prevent any of the 10 individuals named by the United States from leaving the country. Read also: Following Rocha's request for leave, the Congress of Sinaloa calls an extraordinary session; an interim governor will be appointed. "We must ensure that they don't end up in Paraguay like Bermúdez, or in Argentina like Fernando Farías Laguna. We must use the national immigration system to ensure that none of them leave the country." Rafael Calderón Jiménez, a PAN advisor, said that the accused individuals must be available in case the United States' extradition request is approved. "So that they can spend the rest of their lives in a U.S. prison. The government also needs to take action against the entire other group that is currently free, such as Sara Bruna, who falsified expert reports and tried to deceive us with the supposed death of Melesio at a gas station," he stated. "They must remain in the country and be available for their eventual extradition once the 60-day period has passed," said Deputy Federico Döri.

The Morena senator, Guadalupe Chavira, urged the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha, to request a leave of absence to be investigated, stating that the accusations made by the New York District Attorney's Office in the United States are serious and should not be ignored by the Mexican government. She argued that Sinaloa cannot be caught between the gravity of an international accusation and the paralysis of its institutions, and that Mexico needs strong institutions, honest governments, and authorities capable of responding clearly when public trust is at risk. "It is also the responsibility of the government branches of Sinaloa to act with constitutional responsibility. Any potential separation from office must be processed in an orderly, legal, and respectful manner, adhering to the mechanisms provided by the applicable legal framework, avoiding any power vacuum and ensuring the institutional continuity of the state government," the Morena member stated. Also read: The presumption of innocence must prevail: Sheinbaum In a letter to the public, the secretary of the Legislative Studies Committee reminded that within the Fourth Transformation Movement, there is no room to evade basic principles: not lying, not stealing, and not betraying the people. "Therefore, in a firm, institutional, and responsible manner, I request that Governor Rubén Rocha Moya submit his resignation from the position of Constitutional Governor of the State of Sinaloa." The secretary...

The U.S. government is targeting the assets of Rubén Rocha Moya, the Morena party governor of Sinaloa, and those of the nine politicians and police chiefs accused of drug trafficking, allegedly obtained through their collaboration with the Los Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. In the indictment for the case, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that all real estate and any economic gains belonging to the 10 defendants are subject to seizure. These assets are believed to be directly or indirectly derived from support for the drug trafficking and arms import activities of the sons of the drug lord Joaquín Guzmán Loera, known as "El Chapo." According to the publicly released indictment, U.S. authorities will also seek to seize assets that the accused politicians and police officials may attempt to conceal, fail to locate, transfer, sell, or deliver to a third party, or move outside the jurisdiction of the court handling the case. Also read: Mayor of Culiacán requests a leave of absence for more than 10 days following accusations of ties to drug traffickers; Ana Miriam Ramos will replace him. If the individuals from Sinaloa are found guilty, U.S. authorities will proceed with the confiscation of assets and bank accounts belonging to Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa; Enrique Inzunza Cázares, a senator from Morena; Gerardo Mérida Sánchez, former Secretary of Public Security of Sinaloa; Juan de Dios Gámez Mendívil, mayor…

Culiacán.- The mayor of Culiacán, Sinaloa, Juan de Dios Gámez Díaz, has requested a leave of absence from his position for more than ten days, while investigations are being conducted by the Attorney General's Office regarding the accusations made by the United States government, which link him to the "Los Chapitos" faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. In an extraordinary session held this evening, the city council approved the temporary suspension of Gámez Díaz, a member of the Morena party, who did not attend the meeting held at the city hall in the capital of Sinaloa. José Ernesto Peñuelas Castellanos, the secretary of the city council, presided over the session, during which he read a letter sent by Gámez Mendívil. Also read: Prediction of Rubén Rocha's extradition reaches PolyMarket; the bet on Maduro's capture in the US resurfaces. "With full confidence in the institutions of this country, I have decided to request a temporary leave of absence for more than 10 days, while an investigation is being carried out, as announced today," the letter states. This request was approved by the members of the city council. During the brief session, Erika Sánchez, a council member from the PRI party, criticized the mayor for not having the courage to appear and face them, and for showing disrespect to the population that has been suffering from almost two years of violence. The suspension of Juan de Dios Gámez Díaz occurred shortly after Governor Rubén Rocha Moya made a statement...

Governor Rubén Rocha Moya has requested a leave of absence from his position following an investigation initiated by the Attorney General's Office (FGR) regarding allegations made by the United States concerning drug trafficking. More information to follow shortly...

Last Sunday, April 26th, the National Executive Committee of Morena unanimously approved the call for the VIII Extraordinary National Congress of the political party. Here's what you need to know about it. According to their statement, the objective is to elect the new national leader before the 2027 elections, following the departure of Luisa María Alcalde, whom the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, invited to join her cabinet, specifically in the Legal Counsel of the Federal Executive, replacing Esthela Damián. "The eventual appointment and ratification should strengthen the organization and safeguard the legacy built by Licenciado Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and support the presidency of Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo." Also read: Luisa María Alcalde says goodbye to the podcast "La Moreniza"; she joins Sheinbaum's cabinet. When and where will the Morena National Congress be held? The VIII Extraordinary National Congress of Morena will be held at: Maya 1 and 2 Halls of the World Trade Center (WTC) in Mexico City. Address: Montecido No. 38, Colonia Nápoles, Benito Juárez borough. Sunday, May 3rd, at 11:00 AM. Entrance will be through the corner of Dakota and Filadelfia streets, and registration will begin at 8:00 AM. The quorum will be composed of more than half of the members of the National Congress. In addition to the election of the national leadership, the congress will...

Personnel from the Secretariat of the Navy (Semar), in coordination with authorities from the State of Mexico, arrested a woman at a residence located in the Las Américas neighborhood, Otumba. The woman was found in possession of 10 vehicles, five high-performance motorcycles, two firearm magazines, and a large quantity of ammunition. The authorities also discovered a wide variety of exotic animals: 12 racehorses, three tigers (one Bengal and two white), three deer, two miniature chickens (known as "kikiriki"), four peacocks, a spider monkey, a fox, and several green parrots. The arrested woman was informed of her rights, and the seized items were turned over to the appropriate authorities to initiate the corresponding investigation and determine her legal status. Also read: Deputy Director of Police in Xalatlaco, Edomex, arrested; investigation underway into an assault captured on video. In addition to the naval personnel, members of the National Operations Unit and the Federal Ministerial Police also participated in the operation, providing perimeter security for personnel from the Attorney General's Office (FGR) during the execution of the search warrant. The authorities reaffirmed their commitment to working in a coordinated manner to maintain order, prevent criminal activities, and strengthen security for the benefit of the population in the central region of the country. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on Whatsapp!…

The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, warned that any foreign government "will encounter principles," following accusations made by the United States against the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, Senator Enrique Inzunza, and other public officials and former officials regarding alleged connections to drug trafficking. During the inauguration of the "La Ceiba" Ecological Park, the federal leader stated that "no foreign government can enter our territory" because, she said, "there are Mexicans here who defend the homeland." "That is why any foreign government encounters principles; the principle of defending sovereignty. That is why any foreign government encounters something very strong, which is the Mexican people, its history, its greatness, and its dignity." Also read: Sheinbaum and the CNTE of Chiapas agree to meet at the National Palace on May 11; teachers threaten a boycott of the World Cup. She added that "there is an empowered people" who are served by the government. While criticizing 36 years of neoliberal policies, Sheinbaum took the opportunity to applaud former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who lives in retirement at his estate, "La Chingada," in Palenque. "In 2018, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador came to power, who, by the way, lives in Palenque. I don't know if he's there now, but let's give him a round of applause so he can hear us." The head of the federal executive branch highlighted progress in the Maya Train cargo project...

Two days after the United States Department of Justice charged the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine public officials and former officials with drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms, the Attorney General's Office (FGR) announced that there is no basis for their provisional arrest. In a press conference, Raúl Jiménez Vázquez, head of the FGR's Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Jurisdictional Control, stated that he will request the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) to ask the U.S. authorities to provide more information. The following statements were highlighted during the event: "This is not a formal extradition procedure, but rather a request for the granting of a provisional measure for the purpose of extradition." "Our obligation is to uphold justice based on the powers and authorities granted to us by the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, the National Code of Criminal Procedure, our International Extradition Law, and international treaties." "We categorically affirm: Nothing and no one is above the law." "The provisional arrest requested constitutes a restriction on human rights." "There is no evidence that allows us to understand the reason for the urgency of the provisional arrest." "The public dissemination of the information underlying this request puts the due process at risk." "The Attorney General's Office..."

The investigation by the U.S. justice system into the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, for his alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel is not new or foreign to Mexican politics, as other high-ranking officials have been formally implicated in Washington for drug trafficking, and some have even been sentenced to prison terms. The recent accusations by the United States against the ruling-party governor of Sinaloa, who is accused of being part of a conspiracy to facilitate the trafficking of large quantities of drugs and accepting bribes from organized crime, add to other investigations or accusations against other high-level Mexican politicians. Here is a review of the most relevant cases: Mario Villanueva Madrid Former Governor of the state of Quintana Roo (eastern Mexico) from 1993 to 1999, he was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for his relationship with the Juarez Cartel, which led to his extradition to the United States in 2010 to be tried in federal court for money laundering. Also read: Case of Rubén Rocha: Did it fracture the Mexico-U.S. relationship? Experts point to a defense of sovereignty with collaboration. Before this trial, Villanueva Madrid was imprisoned in Mexico and New York, and was sentenced to 131 months in prison for conspiring to launder millions of dollars in bribe payments from drug trafficking. Tomás Yarrington Investigated by the DEA for years, Yarrington was gove…

President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that the rule of law and the presumption of innocence must prevail in Mexico, in response to the accusations made by the United States government against the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya. She also criticized the opposition for, as she claimed, acting like the conservatives of the past. During her morning press conference, the president emphasized that any accusations must be supported by evidence and investigated by the appropriate authority. "Everyone is innocent until proven guilty. That is the justice system in Mexico... responsibility must be proven within our legal framework," she affirmed. Also read: Rubén Rocha, his assets according to his asset declaration. In this regard, she emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Attorney General's Office (FGR) to conduct the investigations and, if necessary, request the necessary information. "It is the Attorney General's Office that must analyze the evidence, see what is available, and if not, request the necessary evidence. It's that simple," she stated. Sheinbaum accuses the opposition of calling for intervention in Mexico. Sheinbaum also criticized the opposition, stating that it is "regrettable" that they resort to foreign entities to claim they are seeking foreign intervention. "What is truly regrettable is that the Mexican right-wing is clinging to a court in southern New York or the U.S. Department of Justice..."

Amidst differences with the United States government, leaders from various labor unions expressed their support for President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and called for national unity in the defense of sovereignty. During a presidential press conference, Tereso Medina Ramírez, Secretary General of the Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM), stated that neither national sovereignty nor dignity are subject to negotiation. "At this moment, we express to Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum that the workers of Mexico stand with her, and that we will participate, because what we desire most is that, in national unity, we also defend national sovereignty. As she has told us, national sovereignty and dignity are not negotiable." Also read: Labor Day: Marath Bolaños says that there is still work to be done to recover labor rights after the neoliberal period; highlights historical struggles. At the facilities of the Center for Contemporary Mexican Culture, the leader of the CTM stated that, since the beginning of what is known as the "Fourth Transformation," workers have benefited from the protection of their labor rights. The Secretary General of the CTM also highlighted, under the presidency of Claudia Sheinbaum, the reduction of commissions charged by pension funds, the improvement of pensions, and the approval of the reform to reduce the work week to 40 hours. María de Jesús Rodríguez Vázquez, Secretary General of the Authentic Confederation of Workers…

Culiacán.— The Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, stated this Thursday that he has not considered requesting a leave of absence or stepping down from his position, in light of the accusations against him in the United States, which accuse him of drug trafficking and illegal possession of weapons. During a visit to the municipality of Navolato, he told local media that he has no fear and that everyone should take responsibility for their own actions. "There is absolutely nothing to fear on our part. Those who fear nothing, fare well. Those who owe nothing, owe nothing to pay." When asked if he had considered stepping down from his position while the investigations are underway, he said: "No, let's not jump to conclusions, everything in its own time." He added: "I am not afraid, there is nothing to fear, I fear nothing, absolutely nothing, because I feel like a completely honest person and I have no reason to fear anything," he said. He stated that he is not afraid of being arrested, "I only fear not having enough time to follow the legal proceedings, if they are established." Otherwise, he said, he is not afraid. When questioned about the other nine officials and former officials accused by the U.S. government of having ties to organized crime, and whether he would take responsibility for them, the governor responded, "No, for no one. Everyone should take responsibility for themselves." Regarding the statement by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, who said that the Mexican government stands for "truth, justice, and the defense of sovereignty," Roch…

Mario Zamora Gastélum, a federal deputy and former candidate for governor of Sinaloa, stated that in 2021, drug cartels indeed imposed Rubén Rocha Moya as the governor of that state. In an interview with EL UNIVERSAL, he asserted that this occurred through a "electoral terrorism" scheme, which included the kidnapping of political operatives, death threats, and the direct intervention of armed groups. In the context of the recent investigations by the U.S. government against the governor of Sinaloa, Zamora Gastélum maintained that time has proven him right: "The 2021 election in Sinaloa was not a democratic exercise, but a criminal operation to impose a government. They stole Sinaloa from us." Nearly six years after the elections in which he lost to Rocha Moya, the legislator recounted the dark day that occurred on June 6th. Although he clarified that neither he nor his family experienced direct incidents during the campaign rallies, he stated that that election day was marked by the brutality of organized crime acting as the enforcement arm of Morena. "It was only 7:00 AM when our candidate for mayor of Badiraguato called me. She was desperate, crying. She told me, 'Mario, I'm going to the media to announce that I'm withdrawing and asking people to vote for Morena. They just took my brother. I just want them to return him safe and sound,'" he declared. This testimony adds to the account submitted to the Organizac…

Miami.— Following the accusations in the United States against the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other officials or former officials, the U.S. Department of Justice is currently seeking their provisional arrest in Mexico. According to a source within the Department, who spoke to EL UNIVERSAL, a more complete file is needed for an extradition to the United States. "What we have requested [from the Mexican government] is a provisional arrest, which, for the time being, does not accuse anyone and is a request to initiate an investigation that, by law, must last 60 days." Jaime Ortiz, a lawyer specializing in extradition cases, notes that the requirements for a provisional arrest request are simpler than those for an extradition request. "The Extradition Treaty between Mexico and the United States allows for, in urgent cases, one country to request the arrest of a person accused or convicted while subsequently formalizing the complete file." The request for arrest "does not require, from the outset, a full demonstration of criminal responsibility. It requires a description of the crime, the full identity of the person in question, their whereabouts, a promise to formalize the request, and a declaration that there is an arrest warrant or sentence." Article 11 of the treaty is straightforward: upon receiving a request of this nature, the requested party "shall take the necessary measures to secure the arrest of the person sought." It is…

On August 23, 2021, a delegation of Mexican opposition leaders, led by Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas, national leader of the PRI; Marko Cortés, who was then the national leader of the PAN; and Jesús Zambrano, former national leader of the now-defunct PRD, arrived in Washington D.C. with a 53-page document denouncing what they called a "narcostate election." What was then presented as a cry for help to international organizations is now gaining renewed relevance, following the fact that the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, is currently under scrutiny by the U.S. Department of Justice. The opposition delegation did not seek out minor channels; they formally presented their complaint to Luis Almagro Lemes, Secretary General of the OAS; Juan S. González, then Director of the Western Hemisphere Affairs Bureau at the U.S. Department of State; Jennifer Brown, from the Department of State; and Tania Reneaum Panszi, from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). Also read: Case of Rubén Rocha: Did it fracture the Mexico-U.S. relationship? Experts point to a defense of sovereignty with collaboration. The central point of the complaint was a single issue: the systematic intervention of organized crime to favor candidates from the ruling party, with a particular focus on the state of Sinaloa. The document, which was kept confidential at the time and is now in the possession of EL UNIVERSAL, vividly recounts the events of June 6, 2021. According to the testimonies...

Esmeralda and other activists are working to promote the "Moni Law," which aims to hold individuals accountable for animal abuse, regardless of their age. This effort stems from the case of Moni, a 16-year-old Chihuahua who was blind and deaf. She was killed in May 2024 by Flor, a 78-year-old woman in the Coyoacán district. While Flor admitted her guilt, a judge granted her a provisional release due to her advanced age. Join our channel! "EL UNIVERSAL" is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device.

Jorge Álvarez Máynez, leader of the Movimiento Ciudadano (MC) party, and Congressman Gibrán Ramírez have requested the lifting of immunity for public officials in Sinaloa who have been accused by the U.S. Department of Justice of drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms. More information to follow shortly... Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on Whatsapp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device.

The recent accusations made by the Donald Trump administration against the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other officials for alleged drug trafficking and illegal possession of weapons, as well as the response from Claudia Sheinbaum, have sparked a debate about the current state of the bilateral relationship. In an interview with EL UNIVERSAL, Abraham Serrano, an international security and defense consultant, and David Saucedo, a public safety specialist, explain the tensions between the two countries. The experts agree that the relationship between Mexico and the United States has historically been complex, but that it is currently experiencing a period of tension marked by security interests, political pressure, and electoral calculations. Also read: The case of Rubén Rocha "is just the beginning," says a committee of the U.S. House of Representatives; "Impunity for drug terrorists is over." "It seems to me that the situation remains complex, and it has been that way for some time. Despite the fact that Claudia Sheinbaum has been complying with the guidelines set by Washington on immigration, trade, and security issues, the tension persists," Saucedo says. On the other hand, Serrano described the relationship as "a marriage with its ups and downs," in which there are rights and obligations, and "sometimes there are good advances." Also read: Investigations by the Attorney General's Office regarding the case of Rubén Rocha Moya must be awaited, says the governor of Guanajuato; "a resolution will have to be reached..."

Regarding the accusations made by the United States government against officials and former officials from Sinaloa, concerning alleged ties to organized crime, it is important to consider that elections are scheduled for next November in that country, stated Laura Itzel Castillo, President of the Senate of the Republic. Speaking to the media, the legislator hinted at political and electoral interests behind the requests for the arrest and extradition of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, Senator Enrique Inzunza, and eight other public officials and former officials. "I believe we must consider that there are elections in the United States, and that there are many factors that, in this case, should be taken into account, namely, to gain votes," she emphasized. Also read: Drug cartels sowed terror to impose Rocha Moya in Sinaloa: Deputy Mario Zamora; "The 2021 election was a criminal operation," accuses. She reiterated that the Attorney General's Office (FGR) has already announced that it will conduct an investigation, and therefore, we must wait for the conclusions. Furthermore, Castillo stated that the establishment of the Permanent Commission violated the Organic Law of the General Congress, specifically articles 118 and 120, because it allowed the opposition to take a position on the issue of the accusations against the state governor without any prior agreement. "It is very clear what the law states regarding the procedure that must be followed for the installation of..."

On August 10, 2024, Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada released his version of events after being arrested by U.S. authorities on July 25, 2024. In a letter, the founder of the Sinaloa Cartel accused the governor of the state, Rubén Rocha Moya, of having ties to drug trafficking and attending meetings to discuss political matters. Zambada's lawyer published a statement on August 10, in which he accused Joaquín Guzmán López of orchestrating an ambush with the intention of depriving him of his freedom. The statement mentioned a meeting with Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán's son, the state governor, and former rector of the Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Héctor Melesio Cuen. "Joaquín Guzmán López asked me to attend a meeting to help resolve differences between the political leaders of our state. I was aware of a dispute between Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, and Héctor Melesio Cuen Ojeda, a former federal deputy, mayor of Culiacán, and rector of the Autonomous University of Sinaloa (UAS), regarding who should lead that institution. I was informed that, in addition to Héctor Cuen and Governor Rocha Moya, Iván Guzmán Salazar would also be present at the meeting," "El Mayo" stated. Also read: Rubén Rocha Moya rejects calls to step down from his position; he will face the accusations without fear, he says. The leader of the Sinaloa Cartel and a close associate of Guzmán Loera made it clear that he did not make any deals...

Following claims that there is "tons" of evidence against the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, the president of the PRI (National Revolutionary Party), Alejandro Moreno Cárdenas, announced that he will request the National Electoral Institute (INE) to revoke the registration of Morena (the ruling party), arguing that it has transformed into a drug trafficking cartel, which he considers a serious matter. In a press conference, the PRI leader called on President Claudia Sheinbaum to "hand over" Rocha Moya, to put an end to the "culture of impunity," and not to become an accomplice. He asserted that the Rocha Moya case has nothing to do with national sovereignty. "Sovereignty is that Mexicans can walk freely in the streets, that Mexicans can travel on the roads. Sovereignty is having healthcare, having medicine, having education... it's not about empty rhetoric from those who try to interfere." Also read: Public appearances of Andy López Beltrán and Rubén Rocha; AMLO's son handed him his Morena membership card. Alejandro Moreno announced that he will travel to the United States again next week to present evidence against the alleged "narco-politicians" of Morena, a move he stated does not make him a traitor or someone who betrays the country. He expressed satisfaction that his denunciations in the United States and before international organizations are yielding results. "Morena requested the revocation of the registration of the Green Ecological Party because some influencers had..."

Andrés Manuel López Beltrán, son of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and current Secretary of Organization for the Morena party, has shared moments with the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, who was today accused by the United States Department of Justice of drug trafficking and other crimes. On Sunday, January 12, 2025, after the presentation of the report on the first 100 days of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo's administration, López Beltrán greeted the Governor of Sinaloa, and they took a photo together, which the state governor shared on his social media accounts. "It's always a pleasure to meet our colleague @amlopezbeltran. We continue to advance the great legacy of the best president @lopezobrador_, in unity, alongside the first female president @Claudiashein, for the second stage of the Fourth Transformation," Rocha Moya posted hours later. Also read: "Los Chapitos" played a key role in the election of the governor. In the photograph, both politicians are seen in front of the platform set up in the Zócalo (main square) of Mexico City, and in front of the National Palace. "Andy" Manuel López Beltrán has maintained a low profile and has not been present at all Morena events; in fact, he does not use social media and rarely appears with politicians. However, in December 2024, during the closing of Morena's national tour, the goal of 10 million members by 2025 was announced. In the Plaza de las Tres Culturas, L...

President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo stated that there is complete confidence in the country's institutions, particularly the Attorney General's Office (FGR), which, she said, must conduct a "thorough" review of cases related to alleged violations of national sovereignty, CIA agents, and extradition requests originating from the United States, in this case, concerning the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya. During her press conference, the president explained that both the issue of potential foreign agents operating in Mexican territory and the conduct of authorities in Chihuahua are already under analysis by the FGR. Furthermore, she detailed that the request from the U.S. Department of Justice, based in New York, pertains to a "temporary detention for the purpose of extradition," a procedure that must be evaluated in accordance with Mexican law. Also read: Complete list of officials accused of drug trafficking by the U.S. Sheinbaum emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Attorney General's Office to gather sufficient evidence to determine whether or not to open an investigation. "We all have confidence in the country's institutions and the Attorney General's Office, which must conduct a thorough review and, based on that, provide its assessment," she stated. She indicated that, once this analysis is complete, the FGR must inform the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE), which will then communicate…

President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo questioned the stance of the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson, regarding corruption and extortion in Mexico. She stated that she has not had any communication with him since the U.S. Department of Justice filed charges against the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other individuals for drug trafficking and related offenses. "We can say that these are unfortunate statements. Why would a U.S. Ambassador in Mexico, a French Ambassador in Mexico, an Ambassador from Ukraine in Mexico, from Iran in Mexico, from Cuba in Mexico, from Argentina in Mexico...? An ambassador cannot be, cannot adopt an interventionist attitude," the president said. During the morning press conference on Thursday, April 30th, the head of the executive branch mentioned that Mexico has always been respectful towards the United States, and that is what she seeks: a relationship of mutual respect between ambassadors and the nations of the world. Also read: "Without proof, there is nothing to fear," says Sheinbaum to Rubén Rocha after U.S. accusations; they held a phone call. "The role of ambassadors should always be one of mutual respect. Therefore, our goal is never to establish bad relationships, neither with the U.S. government nor with its ambassadors, but the president's responsibility is to guarantee the respect and sovereignty of Mexico," she said. -"I don't want to misinterpret your words..."

President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed the case involving Rubén Rocha. She stated that in this case, it is essential to guarantee "truth, justice, and the defense of sovereignty." "We will not shield anyone who has committed a crime. However, if there is no clear evidence, it is evident that the objective of these accusations by the Department of Justice is political," she said. Also read: FGR: Extradition will only occur if there is evidence of charges. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. em/nro

The president of the Senate's Coordination Committee (Jucopo), Ignacio Mier Velazco, warned that collaboration between countries cannot tolerate pressure or actions outside of established institutional channels. "Public accusations and the dissemination of information lacking legal basis are not sufficient; formal requests, properly substantiated and accompanied by sufficient evidence, are required," he stated, outlining his position on the accusations of links to drug trafficking made by the United States government against the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, Senator Enrique Inzunza, and eight other individuals. He affirmed that Mexico remains willing to cooperate with the United States and the international community, but only based on formal requests, legally supported, and within the framework of national law. Also read: Rocha Moya, a governor marked by a criminal connection. "Outside of these channels, any action lacks legal validity and is contrary to the rule of law," he warned. Mier Velazco categorically stated that Mexico is a country governed by the rule of law, and therefore, any request regarding extradition must be addressed in accordance with the Constitution of the United Mexican States, applicable laws, and international instruments signed by our country, including the extradition treaty between the two countries, strictly adhering to all requirements.

In a letter released in August 2024, after being brought to the United States by one of El Chapo's sons, the drug lord Ismael Zambada García revealed that on the day of his kidnapping, he was supposed to meet with Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, and Héctor Melesio Cuén Ojeda, the former rector of the University of Sinaloa (UAS), to help resolve differences between the two politicians. "Joaquín Guzmán López asked me to attend a meeting to help resolve differences between the political leaders of our state. I was aware of a dispute between Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, and Héctor Melesio Cuén Ojeda, a former federal congressman, mayor of Culiacán, and rector of the Autonomous University of Sinaloa (UAS), regarding who should lead that institution. I was told that (...) Iván Guzmán Salazar would also be present at the meeting," the drug lord, who is currently imprisoned in the United States, stated. To that end, he recounted, he went to the Huertos del Pedregal ranch, where, he said, he was ambushed, kidnapped, and subsequently transported to the United States. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device.

Culiacán.— Born in 1949 in the mountainous community of Batequitas, in the municipality of Badiraguato, Rubén Rocha Moya has been the governor of Sinaloa since November 1, 2021. His administration has been marked by a conflict in Sinaloa territory between factions of the Sinaloa Cartel, known as "Chapitos" and "Mayitos," which has been ongoing since September 2024. From his youth, Rocha Moya was shaped by leftist ideologies. He began his career as a primary school teacher and later became a mathematics professor at a high school, eventually becoming its director. He ran for governor three times and won on his third attempt. He served as the rector of the Autonomous University of Sinaloa (UAS) from 1993 to 1997. Also read: Rubén Rocha Moya says he is calm after accusations from the US; "nothing will happen," he says. In his political career, he served as the coordinator of advisors to the PRI governor Jesús Aguilar Padilla (2005-2010), and after the end of that term, he joined the government of Enrique Peña Nieto as the deputy director of Training and Educational Services at the ISSSTE. He finally won the governorship in the June 2021 elections, under the banner of Morena, which were marked by reports of threats and kidnappings against opposition candidates. He received a historic vote of 624,225 votes, representing 56.60% of the ballots cast. Also read: VIDEO: "You are not alone!"; This is how Morena supporters defended Rubén Rocha after a letter from "El Mayo." On July 25, 2…

According to the charges made public by the U.S. Department of Justice, Los Chapitos played a key role in the 2021 election of Rubén Rocha Moya as governor of Sinaloa, allegedly through actions such as kidnapping, intimidation, and theft of ballots, among other things, to ensure the candidate's victory. The indictment states that, at the beginning of that year, Rocha Moya met with leaders of Los Chapitos, including Iván and Ovidio Guzmán. The latter is already in the custody of U.S. authorities and has signed a plea agreement that includes cooperation with authorities in other cases. According to the indictment, during that meeting, Iván and Ovidio "promised that Los Chapitos would ensure that Rocha Moya won the election. In return, Rocha Moya promised that, if elected, he would ensure that officials affiliated with Los Chapitos' drug trafficking activities were placed in positions of authority in the government of Sinaloa." Also read: Infographic: Complete list of officials accused of drug trafficking by the U.S.; includes Rubén Rocha and Enrique Inzunza. Another of the accused, Enrique Díaz Vega, allegedly provided the leaders of Los Chapitos with a list of Rocha Moya's opponents and their addresses, so that members of the cartel could "intimidate them and force them to withdraw from the race." The indictment states that the cartel, in fact, "kidnapped" Rocha Moya's opponents and "intimidated" them to withdraw from the race.

In response to the United States' request to detain the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, for extradition purposes, due to alleged connections with "Los Chapitos," the Attorney General's Office (FGR) announced that he will only be extradited if there is evidence to support the charges against him, as stipulated in the extradition treaty signed between Mexico and the neighboring country to the north. Hours after the Department of Justice and the DEA presented the formal charges against the Morena party leader and nine other officials and police commanders to a judge in southern New York, Ulises Lara López, spokesperson for the FGR, stated that the extradition request is not accompanied by conclusive evidence regarding the alleged ties between Morena party members and the Sinaloa Cartel. The Special Prosecutor for Relevant Investigations also affirmed that the request from the United States government requires that Mexican authorities take the necessary measures to ensure that the information contained within is not disclosed or made public, as happened in this case. Also read: Under scrutiny: The murder of Héctor Melesio Cuén and the alleged connections of Rubén Rocha Moya with organized crime. "The above takes into account, according to the letter itself, that disclosing such information for purposes other than those specified could be detrimental to the confidential nature of criminal proceedings in the United States and contrary to the procedural...

This Wednesday, April 29th, the United States Department of Justice filed charges against the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other individuals, for drug trafficking and related firearms offenses. In response to these charges, the U.S. government requested that Mexican authorities initiate an extradition process for the individuals involved. The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) stated that, in accordance with the International Extradition Law, the information received has been forwarded to the Attorney General's Office (FGR) for evaluation, and that the requests will be assessed according to Mexican law. Following accusations by the Donald Trump administration that Governor Rubén Rocha Moya was allied with the Sinaloa Cartel, his potential extradition faces a complex situation, both legally and politically, according to lawyer Walter Piñeiro Bertello, an international affairs and geopolitics analyst interviewed by EL UNIVERSAL. Also read: In the Rocha case, Morena supports the Mexican government; reaffirms confidence in the FGR and its decisions. According to the expert, the potential extradition of Rocha Moya faces a complex situation, both legally and politically. According to statements from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) and the Attorney General's Office (FGR), an extradition request must meet specific requirements established in the bilateral treaty between Mexico and the United States. Among the conditions…

The U.S. Department of Justice accuses police chiefs and prosecutors from the state of Sinaloa of receiving bribes from "Los Chapitos" to facilitate their fentanyl and other drug trafficking operations into the neighboring country to the north. As evidence, they presented a narcotics indictment to Judge Katherine Polk Failla, which includes "hundreds" of agents and police officers who receive monthly payments. These individuals include Dámaso Castro Zaavedra, Deputy Prosecutor of Sinaloa; Marco Antonio Almanza Áviles, former head of the Investigative Police of the State Prosecutor's Office of Sinaloa; Alberto Jorge Contreras Nuñez, alias "Cholo," the current head of the Investigative Police; José Antonio Dionisio Hipólito, alias "Tomado," former commander of the State Police; and Juan Valenzuela Millán, "Juanito," former head of the Culiacán Police. According to the indictment, Castro Zaavedra, identified in the list as "Culiacán Regio," received bribes of 200,000 pesos each month from a member of "Los Chapitos," known as the "plaza boss" of Culiacán. This individual is responsible for overseeing the drug trafficking operations of the sons of the drug lord Joaquín Guzmán Loera in the Sinaloan capital and its metropolitan area. Also read: VIDEO: This is how AMLO defended Rubén Rocha, who was accused of colluding with the Sinaloa Cartel; he claimed that the violence in the state was the fault of the U.S. "The 'plaza boss' of Culiacán typically receives from the leaders of Los Chapitos, each month, a box containing..."

The national leader of the PAN party, Jorge Romero, demanded the suspension of powers in Sinaloa state in response to accusations from the United States against Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, related to crimes against public health. He stated that the Senate of the Republic should immediately evaluate the possibility of suspending powers in the state, as a measure provided for in the Constitution for extraordinary situations. "This is not an extreme measure, but a necessary response to a situation that has overwhelmed local authorities," he said. Also read: VIDEO: This is how AMLO defended Rubén Rocha, accused of colluding with the Sinaloa Cartel; he claimed that the violence in the state was the fault of the US. "Mexico cannot allow those who have the responsibility to combat organized crime to be under suspicion of having ties to it." "This is no longer a rumor or speculation. We are facing a state crisis that demands firm responses and immediate action," Romero warned. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on Whatsapp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion articles, entertainment, trends, and more, directly on your mobile device. dft/bmc

The Attorney General's Office (FGR) announced that it has initiated an investigation to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to support the accusations made by the United States against the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other officials. More information to follow shortly... Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. bmc

The potential extradition of the Governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, to the United States has sparked a legal and political debate regarding the scope of the bilateral treaty and the role of the Mexican government, with the final decision resting with the federal executive branch. According to Virginia Petrova Georgieva, a researcher at the Department of Law at the Iberoamericana University, the request submitted by U.S. authorities must comply with the requirements established in the extradition treaty and Mexican legislation. She explained that Article 6 of the bilateral agreement states that extradition only proceeds if the United States presents sufficient evidence to demonstrate the likely responsibility of the person being extradited in the crimes alleged, in this case, alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and organized crime offenses. Also read: VIDEO: This is how AMLO defended Rubén Rocha, accused of colluding with the Sinaloa Cartel; he claimed that the violence in the state was the fault of the U.S. However, she noted that Article 12 allows Mexico to request additional information if it considers the initial evidence to be insufficient, meaning that a lack of evidence does not automatically lead to the rejection of the extradition process. "It is very difficult for an extradition to be denied solely due to a lack of evidence; there is always the possibility of requesting additional information," she emphasized. She pointed out that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) received the request…

Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, reported annual income of 2.3 million pesos, owning a Volkswagen vehicle that he won in a raffle, and receiving three pensions. In his most recent Declaration of Assets and Interests, submitted in May of last year, Rocha Moya reported that he received a total of 798,208 pesos for his position as governor of Sinaloa. The MORENA party governor also reported receiving three pensions: he received 731,647 pesos from the Autonomous University of Sinaloa (UAS) – where he served as rector from 1993 to 1996 –; 490,626 pesos from his IMSS pension; and 316,102 pesos from a widow's pension from the ISSSTE. Also read: Senate approves the entry of 12 U.S. military personnel in a session marked by accusations against Rocha; they will train Mexican troops. In total, adding his salary as governor and his three pensions, the governor had an income of 2,336,583 pesos. Won a car in a raffle In the "Vehicles" section, the governor reported owning a Volkswagen Gol model car that he won in a raffle in June 2017. A month earlier, on May 15th of that year, Rocha Moya purchased a Mercedes Benz GLC 2018 model car on credit for a total amount of 850,000 pesos. Also read: LIVE: U.S. accuses Rubén Rocha and 9 Mexican officials of drug trafficking; SRE claims there is no evidence, follow the minute-by-minute updates. He also reported owning a house on a 155-meter plot of land…

Amidst reports from the U.S. Attorney's Office accusing the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha, as well as the Morena senator, Enrique Inzunza, and other officials, the Senate approved a new request from President Claudia Sheinbaum for 12 U.S. military personnel to enter national territory armed, in order to train Mexican troops. In the absence of Enrique Inzunza from the plenary session, and with meetings taking place in their seats, Adam Augusto López, close to the leader of "La Barredora," met with senators Gerardo Fernández Noroña, who had met with Rubén Rocha the previous weekend. There were expressions of concern and uncertainty on the faces of those present at the meeting between the Tabasco politician and Fernández Noroña, which was also attended by the Veracruz politician and former PAN member, Miguel Ángel Yunes. Also read: Complete list of officials accused of drug trafficking by the U.S.; Rubén Rocha and Senator Enrique Inzunza are among those mentioned. During the session, Lily Téllez attempted twice from the podium to discuss the issue. However, the President of the Senate, Laura Itzel Castillo, cut her off, stating that it was not a topic included in the agenda. "Your father would be ashamed" of her behavior, the PAN member said to the daughter of Don Heberto Castillo. In this context, the plenary session unanimously approved the entry of 12 armed U.S. military personnel into national territory to participate in the SOFT 3 event, "Improving the capabilities of special forces units," which will take place...

The president of the Coordination Committee of the Senate (Jucopo), Ignacio Mier Velazco, urged against making premature judgments or speculating in the case of Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha Moya and Morena Senator Enrique Inzunza Cázarez, who have been accused by the United States government of links to drug trafficking. In an interview with the media, he stated that the New York District Attorney's Office will have to present evidence to support the accusations, as so far, only the charges have been made public, but no documentation has been provided. "When there is evidence, we will not allow it or condone it. But initially, the accuser is obligated to provide proof, and when the evidence is presented, the legal process will follow. The ambassador himself was careful in his words. I believe we must be cautious," he affirmed. Also read: VIDEO: This is how AMLO defended Rubén Rocha, who is accused of colluding with the Sinaloa Cartel; he claimed that the violence in the state was the fault of the United States. Mier Velasco indicated that the Attorney General's Office (FGR) will have to evaluate the extradition request presented by the United States government to determine if there are grounds for it. "We must wait, we must remain calm, we must not jump to conclusions, we must be patient, and we must say that we have always been willing, first, to respect the law, and second, to do so publicly, without twisting or distorting the facts. Do not make premature judgments. I believe we must wait for the proceedings to…

The governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, is under scrutiny from the United States Department of Justice. This Wednesday, it was announced that he is accused of having made agreements with leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel in order to facilitate the flow of drugs and obtain political benefits that would prolong his time in power. In response to these formal accusations, the state governor denied the allegations and stated that this is not an attack on him personally, but rather on the so-called "Fourth Transformation" movement and its leaders. This is a recounting of Rocha Moya's "friendship" with former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who on more than one occasion acknowledged that, under his administration, Sinaloa was at peace. Also read: U.S. announces charges against Rubén Rocha Moya, governor of Sinaloa; the charges relate to drug trafficking and offenses related to firearms. "There is peace in Sinaloa" On August 10, 2024, the former federal leader expressed his support for Rocha Moya and asked that people wait to hear his version of events, after he was mentioned by Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada in reference to a meeting he was supposed to have with the state governor and Héctor Melesio Cuén, when he was "kidnapped" and taken to the United States. In his statement, the drug trafficker said that he was taken against his will to U.S. territory, after being "kidnapped" while attending a supposed meeting outside of Culiacán with Joaquín Guzmán López, Rocha Mo…

The Morenista governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, could face a life sentence or a minimum prison sentence of 45 years if he goes to trial and is found guilty of the charges brought by the United States government, which accuse him of having ties to the "Los Chapitos" faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. In the indictment filed this Wednesday in the Southern District Court of New York, the Department of Justice and the DEA accuse Rocha Moya, who is close to former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, of charges including conspiracy to import narcotics, possession of machine guns and explosive devices, and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices. Also read: US announces charges against Rubén Rocha Moya, governor of Sinaloa; it is for drug trafficking and related weapons offenses. For these crimes, the official could face a life sentence or a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years in prison, according to a statement issued by the United States Department of Justice. Rocha Moya and high-ranking officials and former officials of the state are accused of having associated with the Sinaloa Cartel to distribute large quantities of narcotics to the United States, according to the Department of Justice, which stated that the case has been assigned to federal Judge Katherine Polk Failla. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on Whatsapp! Find out the most important news from your mobile device…

The U.S. Department of Justice has accused Rubén Rocha Moya, along with nine other officials, of drug trafficking and conspiring with the Sinaloa Cartel. Following this, the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) announced that the government of Donald Trump had requested the arrest of the Governor of Sonora for the purpose of extradition. The ministry stated that this request arrived without evidence, and that the Attorney General's Office (FGR) will be responsible for determining whether to initiate legal proceedings. Also read: U.S. requests the arrest of Rubén Rocha for extradition purposes; FGR to evaluate whether there is evidence of drug trafficking. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! Stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more, all from your mobile device. bmc

The PAN senator, Lily Téllez, celebrated that the U.S. Attorney's Office had filed drug trafficking charges against the current governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, as well as nine other state officials, for allegedly collaborating with the Sinaloa Cartel. Speaking from the Senate floor, she said: "Congratulations to the United States of America for bringing criminal charges against Governor Rubén Rocha. I regret that justice has to come from a foreign country, and that justice is not being served in Mexico," she said, causing discomfort to the President of the Senate, Laura Itzel Castillo, who asked her to stick to the topic, which was the leave of absence of Manlio Fabio Beltrones. "This is a very important moment in the history of Mexico. The names of the mafia members within Morena are starting to be mentioned. Rubén Rocha, with criminal charges," Téllez said, before being interrupted by the President of the Senate, who repeatedly cut her off during her speech. Also read: Mexican businessman Alejandro Rovirosa celebrates a ruling in his favor by a Texas court; "Ultimately, the judicial system worked," he says. Join our channel! EL UNIVERSAL is now on WhatsApp! From your mobile device, stay informed about the most important news of the day, opinion pieces, entertainment, trends, and more. em

The U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against the Morena senator from Sinaloa, Enrique Inzunza Cázarez, for alleged crimes of conspiracy to traffic drugs and possession of firearms. From 2021 to 2024, Inzunza Cázarez served as Secretary General of the Government of Sinaloa, led by Rubén Rocha Moya, who is also on the list of those accused by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York. In a statement, the U.S. institution stated that the Morena legislator and nine other officials and former officials conspired with leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel to import large quantities of narcotics into the United States in exchange for political support and bribes. Also read: U.S. targets Mexican politicians, Los Angeles Times reports; does not rule out charges for links to cartels. According to the Department of Justice, U.S. authorities are seeking a life sentence for Senator Inzunza or a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years in prison. During the 66th Legislature, the Morena member served as president of the Legislative Studies Committee, recently responsible for President Claudia Sheinbaum's "Plan B." Inzunza allegedly made deals with "Los Chapitos," according to the U.S. According to the indictment, Enrique Inzunza has met with leaders of the "Los Chapitos" faction and other cartel leaders, where he allegedly agreed on specific plans for the government of Sinaloa to...

This Wednesday, April 29th, the U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against the governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, along with nine other individuals, for drug trafficking and offenses related to firearms. Just last Sunday, the Los Angeles Times highlighted the U.S. government's legal actions against officials linked to organized crime, which materialized this Wednesday. Here is the complete list of charges and accusations facing the officials and former officials: Also read: U.S. targets Mexican politicians, Los Angeles Times reports; does not rule out charges for links to cartels. Rubén Rocha Moya The 76-year-old governor of Sinaloa faces charges of conspiracy to import narcotics, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, he could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment or a mandatory minimum of 40 years in prison. Enrique Inzunza Cazarez The current Morena senator and former Secretary General of Sinaloa, aged 53, faces charges of conspiracy to import narcotics, possession of machine guns and destructive devices, and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices. He could face a sentence of life imprisonment or a mandatory minimum of 40 years...