Morelia, Michoacán - Óscar Rentería Schazarino, General de Brigada Diplomado de Estado Mayor, has been appointed as Sinaloa's new Secretary of Public Security following the resignation of Gerardo Mérida Sánchez. This appointment, announced by Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, occurred during a ceremony at the facilities of the Ninth Military Zone with attendance from Omar García Harfuch, Head of the Secretariat for Security and Citizen Protection (SSPC).
Rentería's appointment is set against the backdrop of increasing violence across Sinaloa, which has continued to rise since the early September incidents. Notably, as of December 21, there have been 605 homicides attributed to gang-related conflicts. Reports indicate the situation worsened recently with multiple attacks resulting in eleven deaths over the weekend, including six bodies discovered in Tepuche and three fatalities from gunfire incidents.
Omar García Harfuch emphasized his support for General Rentería on social media, affirming, "From this date, General de Brigada Óscar Rentería Schazarino will lead the @sspsinaloa1 with full backing from the Security Cabinet. Actions to reduce violence in Sinaloa and apprehend those responsible will continue." This commitment highlights the urgency surrounding Rentería’s new role and the substantial pressures he faces.
Rentería Schazarino brings with him pivotal military experience, having previously commanded the 43rd Military Zone based in Apatzingán, Michoacán since September 2023. During his time there, he led military operations against notorious drug cartels including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Los Viagras, and Los Templarios. His military tenure has also seen him take significant action against criminal figures like Miguel Ángel Gallegos Godoy, known as "El Migueladas," who masqueraded as a wealthy businessman involved in organized crime.
Previously, Rentería held the position of commander of the First Military Zone located within Mexico City, where he directed various operations during his service. His experience culminated with his elevation to General de Brigada Diplomado de Estado Mayor by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador back in November 2022.
Rentería’s role as Secretary of Public Security marks the second leadership shift under Governor Rocha. Gerardo Mérida Sánchez resigned amid public concern over persistent violence which is rooted largely in conflicts between factions within the Sinaloa Cartel, particularly "Los Chapitos" and "Los Mayitos." The resignation was reportedly unaccompanied by detailed justifications, casting additional scrutiny on the state's security framework.
The rise of violence has been alarming, reportedly exacerbated after the capture of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada on July 25, 2023, during which infighting among cartels escalated significantly. This internal strife has led to rising tensions and increasing public fears over safety, prompting leaders to call for decisive action.
Governor Rocha Moya reacted to the situation, stating, "The appointment of General Rentería was not only recommended by Secretary of National Defense Ricardo Trevilla but backed by our President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, ensuring full support from the Security Cabinet. We are establishing new hopes for security based on the reality and firmer resolutions from law enforcement.” This statement projects confidence amid great uncertainty.
Rentería’s credentials are bolstered by over 38 years of service within the Mexican Army and Air Force, having begun his military career as a cadet at the Heroico Colegio Militar. His educational background includes extensive military training alongside degrees relevant to military command and national security.
With Sinaloa's security situation becoming increasingly dire, Rentería will need to swiftly implement effective security strategies. This includes enhancing cooperative operations with federal forces, such as the Army and Navy, as well as the Federal Attorney General's Office (FGR), which have all been actively involved in addressing violent crime throughout the region.
The forthcoming challenges for General Rentería won’t be easy; Sinaloa remains one of Mexico's most tumultuous areas for crime and violence linked to drug trafficking. His military pedigree and previous experience leading military zones provide some assurance, but the effectiveness of his strategies will be tested immediately.
Claudia Sheinbaum, President of the Republic, will visit Mazatlán shortly to engage with state security forces and assess the current situation firsthand. Her involvement indicates the federal government's commitment to responding decisively to security concerns across Sinaloa.
Óscar Rentería Schazarino's appointment as Secretary of Public Security is a decisive move amid rising violence, and will be pivotal to restoring order and addressing the pervasive issues, so deeply entrenched within Sinaloa’s criminal dynamics.
