The disputed business interests of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel

"The DEA defines the Jalisco New Generation Cartel as one of the most influential and ruthless mafias in Mexico, with a unique franchise structure and access to vast financial and corrupt political resources, with a presence in at least 40 countries. According to the U.S. agency's 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment, the CJNG is heavily involved in the manufacture, trafficking, and distribution of illicit drugs, such as fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine."

"In 2020, the agency conducted an operation codenamed Python, in which, after a six-month investigation, it arrested more than 600 people associated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel across the United States and made significant seizures of cash and drugs, totaling approximately $20 million and more than 15,000 kilograms of methamphetamine."

"With the kingpin dead and no clear successor, the biggest unknown is who will rise to become the new head of Mexico's most powerful criminal organization. It's also unclear whether the succession process will be smooth and peaceful or if, as analysts predict, violence will erupt over the power struggle."

Following El Mencho's death, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel faces an uncertain succession with no designated leader, potentially triggering violent power struggles. The CJNG operates as one of the world's most influential criminal organizations, with presence in at least 40 countries and involvement in manufacturing and trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The DEA identifies it as heavily resourced with corrupt political connections and a unique franchise structure. Despite significant enforcement efforts, including Operation Python's 600+ arrests and seizures of $20 million and 15,000 kilograms of methamphetamine, the organization's U.S. network has repeatedly regenerated, demonstrating its resilience and capacity to recover from major law enforcement operations.

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