The United States has charged the governor of Mexico’s Sinaloa state, Rubén Rocha, over alleged links to the Sinaloa Cartel, in a move seen as a significant escalation in its fight against organised crime.
The US Department of Justice said Rocha and other officials conspired with cartel leaders to facilitate the trafficking of large quantities of narcotics into the United States in exchange for political support and bribes.
Indictments targeting sitting senior Mexican officials are rare, and the charges mark a shift in US strategy extending beyond cartel leaders to include political figures accused of enabling criminal networks.
Rocha, who was elected governor in 2021, has denied the allegations, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. In a statement, he said the claims “lack any truth or foundation whatsoever.”
The case is expected to increase diplomatic strain between the United States and Mexico, particularly as Rocha is a member of the ruling Morena party, the same political movement as President Claudia Sheinbaum.
US Attorney Jay Clayton said the charges send a clear message that officials who collaborate with drug traffickers will be held accountable, regardless of their position.
According to prosecutors, Rocha allegedly received support from a faction of the cartel linked to the sons of jailed drug lord Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán, known as “Los Chapitos,” during his election campaign.
The group is accused of intimidating political rivals and securing Rocha’s victory in exchange for protection and freedom to operate.
Mexico’s foreign ministry said it had received extradition requests from the US but noted that supporting evidence was insufficient. The country’s attorney general has launched a review to determine whether local legal action is warranted.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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