Background on Key Figures and Relevance
On August 18, 2025, in Culiacán, Sinaloa, the Mexican federal security leadership, headed by Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection Omar García Harfuch, met with Governor Rubén Rocha Moya to continue the strategy implemented over several months for restoring normalcy in Sinaloa. This initiative is crucial as Sinaloa has faced significant security challenges, and the collaboration between federal and state authorities is vital for addressing these issues.
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the President of Mexico, has been instrumental in ensuring that all federal forces support Sinaloa. Regular 15-day working meetings have been established, with this being the third such gathering. The presence of high-ranking officials from various security branches, including the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Navy, and Commander of the National Guard, underscores the importance of this collaboration.
Key Actions and Developments
- Delivery of 100 fully equipped patrol vehicles to the State Police
- Signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Secretariat of Defense and Sinaloa State Government to recruit and train 150 security personnel for the State Security Public Secretariat
During the meeting, Governor Rocha expressed gratitude to President Sheinbaum for the continuous support from federal forces. He highlighted significant progress in security operations, including substantial seizures of war implements, drugs, weapons, and the apprehension of numerous violence-generating individuals.
Rocha emphasized that these achievements have weakened criminal groups, as homicides decreased by 20% in Sinaloa from June to July and further dropped by 35% from July 17 to August 17. He clarified that while progress has been made, the security situation remains unresolved.
Support and Observations
Secretary of State Public Security Oscar Rentería Schazarino welcomed the attendees and informed them that 100 patrol vehicles had been delivered by the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection, adding to the previously provided 6 armored “Ocelot” trucks from the Secretariat of Defense.
Representatives from businesses, media, and other productive sectors attended the event, witnessing the commitment of all involved parties to enhance Sinaloa’s security.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who attended the meeting? The meeting was attended by Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, Secretary of Security Oscar Rentería Schazarino, representatives from businesses and media, as well as high-ranking officials from the Secretariats of Defense, Navy, and the National Guard.
- What was the purpose of the meeting? The primary objective was to strengthen the security strategy in Sinaloa, which has faced ongoing challenges. The meeting aimed to review progress and discuss further actions to ensure the safety of Sinaloan citizens.
- What were the key outcomes of the meeting? The delivery of 100 patrol vehicles to the State Police and a memorandum of understanding between the Secretariat of Defense and Sinaloa State Government to recruit and train 150 security personnel were the main outcomes.
- How have these efforts impacted security in Sinaloa? The collaborative efforts have led to a 20% decrease in homicides from June to July and a further 35% reduction from mid-July to mid-August. While challenges persist, these developments demonstrate progress in weakening criminal groups.
