Los Mayos

Sinaloa's economy contracted 4.5% quarter-over-quarter in Q1 2026 due to insecurity from cartel violence and adverse weather. The state lost 27,000 formal jobs, with experts linking the economic decline to ongoing clashes between Sinaloa Cartel factions Los Chapitos and Los Mayos.

Carlos Paez Pereda, accused leader of the Sinaloa Cartel's Los Rugrats wing, faces narcoterrorism and drug trafficking charges. The Justice Department alleges he orchestrated a violent drug distribution network, facilitated cartel conflicts, and laundered millions. Federal agencies including the FBI and DEA are involved in the case.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa bans on 75 family members and associates of the Sinaloa cartel, expanding Trump-era sanctions to target those profiting from cartel activities. The Sinaloa cartel, designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 2025, faces intensified U.S. measures including military intervention and criminal penalties.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa bans on 75 family members and associates linked to the Sinaloa cartel, expanding the Trump administration's crackdown on drug traffickers and those profiting from illicit activities. The Sinaloa cartel was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization in February 2025, enabling stricter U.S. penalties and military actions.