CJNG Moves to Fill Vacuum in Ecatepec as ‘La Chokiza’ Crumbles – Breaking News
Ecatepec, State of Mexico – A power vacuum in one of Mexico’s most densely populated municipalities is attracting the attention of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), sparking fears of an escalating turf war. Following the recent dismantling of the notorious ‘La Chokiza’ criminal group, federal authorities report strong indications that the CJNG is actively seeking to control illicit activities in Ecatepec, a region plagued by organized crime.
From ‘La Chokiza’ to ‘Los Manzano’: A Criminal Empire in Transition
‘La Chokiza,’ led by Alejandro Gilmare Mendoza Díaz, alias ‘El Choko,’ once held significant sway over Ecatepec, operating under the guise of social organizations and leveraging connections with politicians and social media. The group’s downfall began with the arrest of ‘El Choko’ in January 2024 by Captain Edgar Antonio Machado Peña, the newly appointed head of Ecatepec’s Ministry of Public Security, along with key lieutenants. Now rebranded as ‘Los Manzano’ – founded by brothers Manuel and Hugo Manzano – the remnants of the organization are attempting to maintain their territorial control, but their weakened state presents an opportunity for larger, more ruthless cartels.
CJNG’s Strategic Advance: Exploiting Weakness
Federal reports detail the infiltration of CJNG cells into Ecatepec, capitalizing on the disruption caused by ‘La Chokiza’s’ collapse. This isn’t a random move; Ecatepec’s strategic location and massive population (over 1.6 million) make it a lucrative hub for a wide range of criminal enterprises, including extortion, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and property dispossession. The CJNG, known for its aggressive expansion tactics and sophisticated operational structure, recognizes this potential.
The Inner Workings of a Local Criminal Network
‘La Chokiza’ wasn’t a monolithic entity. Its structure comprised numerous smaller criminal groups – United Group, Ochoa’s, Mountains, Union Ecatepec, Apple trees, United Neighborhood, La Changuiza, Zone 2, and Latin Ring – each specializing in different illicit activities. These groups engaged in everything from “drop-by-drop” loans with predatory interest rates to the operation of clandestine bars and the theft of cargo trucks along major highways. The organization’s roots trace back to 2019-2020, initially focusing on cargo theft before evolving into a broader criminal enterprise controlling public transportation and extorting local businesses.
Political Connections and a Former Mayor’s Alleged Ties
The investigation has unearthed concerning allegations of political connections. Ismael Rufino Zamudio Castillo, a key associate of ‘El Choko,’ is linked to Guillermo Fragraso Báez, a leader within the National Union 25 de Marzo. Perhaps more startling, former Cuauhtemoc mayor Sandra Cuevas Nieves is reportedly a “sentimental partner” of ‘El Choko,’ alongside Juana Ivette Ledezma Martínez, a public prosecutor currently in detention. These connections highlight the deep-seated corruption that can enable criminal organizations to flourish.
Local Authorities Downplay Cartel Incursion
Despite the federal reports, Faustino de la Cruz, Ecatepec’s Secretary of the City Council, publicly dismissed claims of CJNG presence, asserting that crime rates are actually decreasing. He acknowledged recent arrests targeting local criminal groups but insisted these were not linked to larger, national cartels. This discrepancy between federal intelligence and local statements raises questions about transparency and the true extent of the threat.
The Bigger Picture: Mexico’s Ongoing Cartel Wars
This situation in Ecatepec is a microcosm of the broader struggle for control within Mexico’s criminal landscape. The CJNG, along with groups like Los Zetas and the Gulf Cartel, are constantly vying for territory and dominance. The dismantling of one group often creates a power vacuum that another is quick to exploit. The involvement of local political figures and law enforcement officials further complicates the situation, hindering efforts to combat organized crime effectively. The recent alliance between La Chokiza and La Unión Tepito underscores the fluidity of these alliances and the ever-shifting dynamics of Mexico’s underworld.
The situation in Ecatepec remains fluid and volatile. As the CJNG attempts to establish a foothold, residents face increased risks of violence and extortion. Continued federal intervention, coupled with genuine efforts to address corruption within local government and law enforcement, will be crucial to preventing Ecatepec from becoming another stronghold for Mexico’s most dangerous cartels. Stay tuned to archyde.com for ongoing updates and in-depth analysis of this developing story and the broader implications for security in Mexico.