Mexico probes possible US deception over 2024 capture of Sinaloa cartel leader

Mexico has opened an investigation into allegations that the United States, specifically the Federal Bureau of Investigation, participated in the seizure of Sinaloa cartel co‑founder Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada García on Mexican soil in 2024. The probe follows a report by the Mexican news outlet Pie de Nota, which claims the FBI was involved in the operation that led to Zambada García’s detention and subsequent secretive transfer, a move that could constitute a breach of Mexican sovereignty.

U.S. officials have consistently denied any role in the capture, maintaining that the operation was conducted solely by Mexican authorities. The Mexican investigation will examine communications, operational logs and any evidence of foreign involvement to determine whether the United States misrepresented its participation. If the inquiry confirms the allegations, it could trigger diplomatic repercussions and raise questions about cross‑border law‑enforcement cooperation.

The outcome of the investigation is expected to shape bilateral relations and inform future protocols for joint anti‑drug efforts, while the case of Zambada García remains a focal point in the ongoing fight against the Sinaloa cartel.