Key Developments in Sinaloa’s Security Landscape
Secretary Omar García Harfuch announced significant reductions in the firepower of the Sinaloa Cartel’s factions, namely Los Mayos and Los Chapitos.
Arrests and Seizures
Between October 1, 2024, and July 16, 2025, authorities in Sinaloa detained nearly 1,500 individuals and seized over 3,000 firearms—more than 20% of the nation’s total. Additionally, more than 53 tons of drugs, including over a ton and a million fentanyl pills, were confiscated.
- Nearly 1,500 arrests in Sinaloa
- Over 3,000 firearms seized (20% of national total)
- 53 tons of drugs confiscated, including over a ton and a million fentanyl pills
On July 20, authorities detailed the dismantling of 91 clandestine labs producing methamphetamines, preventing millions of drug doses from circulating and significantly impacting criminal groups’ finances.
Security Enhancements
Secretary Harfuch emphasized that the federal strategy includes bi-weekly evaluations by the Security Cabinet to adjust actions against violence in Sinaloa. This effort complements regular visits by the Secretary of National Defense and the Secretary of the Navy.
In Navolato, federal forces dismantled six labs, seizing 4,800 kg of methamphetamine and over 47,000 liters of chemical precursors. In Abuya, authorities found a lab containing nearly 1,000 kg of the same substance.
Guardia Nacional’s Strength and Initiatives
Hernán Cortés Hernández, commander of the Guardia Nacional, reported 3,267 personnel deployed in Sinaloa since July 15 as part of the Plan Vacaciones Verano 2025, focusing on ensuring safety for tourists and citizens.
Cortés Hernández also highlighted the promotion of the 089 hotline to encourage anonymous denunciations and combat extortion.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Omar García Harfuch? He is the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, who announced the reduction in the Sinaloa Cartel’s firepower.
- What factions of the Sinaloa Cartel are affected? Los Mayos and Los Chapitos, two prominent factions within the cartel.
- What significant achievements have been made in Sinaloa? Nearly 1,500 arrests, seizure of over 3,000 firearms (20% of the national total), and confiscation of more than 53 tons of drugs.
- How are security measures being strengthened? Bi-weekly evaluations by the Security Cabinet, regular visits by the Secretaries of National Defense and the Navy, and the Guardia Nacional’s deployment to ensure safety for tourists and citizens.
- What is the significance of dismantling clandestine labs? Prevents millions of drug doses from circulating and significantly impacts criminal groups’ finances.
