The attempted capture of Ivan Archivaldo Guzmán Salazar, the infamous leader of the Sinaloa Cartel’s Los Chapitos faction, reflects the intense struggle between criminal organizations and Mexican authorities. On the evening of February 19, 2025, federal forces launched operations in Culiacán, Sinaloa, aimed at apprehending Guzmán as part of intensified efforts to curb narcotrafficking and violence.
During these operations, notable figures from his inner circle, including José Ángel Canobbio, alias "El Güerito," and Kevin Alonso Gil Acosta, known as "El 200," were detained, raising questions about the strength and loyalty within Guzmán's ranks. Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, addressed the media shortly after, stating, "About these topics, it's always best for the Security Cabinet to inform. If you like, you can request them to give details on Tuesday." Such comments highlight the official stance of asking for detailed reports from security officials, emphasizing the complexity of operations targeting organized crime.
The capture of key operatives like El Güerito, who was responsible for logistics and financial matters for the cartel, represented significant gains for federal authorities. Omar García Harfuch, the Secretary of Citizen Security, noted, "The operations were successful and part of our continuing efforts to combat organized crime," underscoring the resolve of Mexican law enforcement.
Yet, amid these operational successes, reports from security experts are shedding light on the precarious situation of Guzmán himself. José Luis Montenegro, a prominent journalist and security expert, revealed, "I'm told Ivan no longer sleeps, he is truly terrified of what could happen," indicating the growing tension and paranoia surrounding his leadership. The increasing pressure from law enforcement and potential formations of alliances against him have reportedly led Guzmán to distrust even those closest to him, setting off what some are calling violent power struggles within the cartel.
The tensions erupted as Guzmán was allegedly holed up during the operations when federal forces surrounded various locations believed to house him. Investigations indicated he might have escaped capture by fleeing through tunnels, experiencing similar tactics once utilized by his father, Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. This precarious escape was reportedly facilitated by the simultaneous capture of his closest confidants, raising alarm bells among his followers.
Following the series of events leading to Guzmán's near apprehension, state authorities took proactive measures. Institutions such as the Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa suspended classes, anticipating possible violent retaliations from Guzmán’s faction. According to local reports, "The decision came amid fears of unrest following the recent operations aimed at the cartel's leadership. Schools shifted to online classes to prioritize the safety of students and faculty alike."
Since the original operation's triggering factors stem from internal conflicts and the perceived betrayal within the ranks, there is heightened scrutiny of Guzmán's influence over his cartel. Traitors within his circle, particularly Jorge Humberto Figueroa Benítez, alias "La Perris," have revealed sensitive information to authorities, leading to the recent detentions. Similarly, analyses of the cartel's operational integrity suggest weakening loyalty among his ranks, fueled by distrust and fear.
With the ever-tightening grip of the authorities on the cartel’s operations, experts are warning of possibly rising violence as factions vie for power. Ivan Archivaldo's attempts to maintain control appear hampered; his recent decisions, including hidden deaths of lieutenants to avoid mass desertions reflect not just urgency but catastrophic erosion of loyalty within his ranks.
The recent spike of violence and aggressive military responses highlight the growing chaos stemming from Guzmán's diminishing control, echoing themes prevalent since his father’s reign. Increasing violence throughout Sinaloa, attributed partly to the battle between Los Chapitos and rival factions, suggests the region may face escalated conflicts as the criminal underworld seeks to fill power vacuums.
This latest skirmish encapsulates the broader narrative of the U.S. and Mexican authorities relentlessly pursuing drug lords who have long terrorized their communities. The increased presence of security forces, driving away public comforts, adds to the tensions sprouting from Guzmán's encircled status. Despite initial setbacks to capture him, both the law enforcement corps and the citizens of Sinaloa hold their breath, awaiting the next developments.
Such is the reality of Ivan Archivaldo Guzmán Salazar—a figure of both fear and intrigue, trapped by the perilous dance of betrayal and survival within the violent world he inhabits.