US Indicts Sinaloa Governor and Nine Officials for Alleged Cartel Collaboration

The United States has indicted Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha Moya and nine other current and former Mexican officials on charges of drug trafficking and weapons offenses. The indictment, unsealed in New York, alleges that these officials conspired with leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel to import large quantities of narcotics into the U.S. in exchange for political support and bribes.

Governor Rocha Moya, who has served since November 2021, is accused of collaborating with the cartel's "Los Chapitos" faction, led by the sons of Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. The indictment claims that Rocha Moya's election was facilitated by the cartel, which allegedly intimidated political rivals to secure his victory.

In response, Rocha Moya categorically denied the allegations, stating they are "completely untrue and without any basis." He described the charges as an attack on Mexico's sovereignty and the ruling party's political project.

The Mexican Foreign Ministry acknowledged receiving extradition requests from the U.S. but indicated that the documents lacked sufficient evidence to proceed. The ministry announced its own investigation to determine the validity of the U.S. accusations.

U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, emphasized the role of corrupt officials in facilitating cartel operations, stating that such support "must end." DEA Administrator Terrance Cole highlighted the cartel's reliance on corruption and bribery to drive violence and profit.

This development poses a significant challenge for Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, as it may strain U.S.-Mexico relations and complicate ongoing trade negotiations.