Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada, a prominent figure in organized crime, has pleaded guilty to two charges of drug smuggling and conspiracy in a New York court. This plea marks a significant development in Zambada’s lengthy criminal career, particularly as he is recognized as the co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, historically one of Mexico’s largest and most powerful drug trafficking organizations.
Zambada had initially pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including drug smuggling, gun-running, and money laundering. However, he changed his plea in front of a federal judge in Brooklyn, acknowledging his involvement in a network that has transported large amounts of cocaine and other illegal drugs into the United States since the late 1980s. In court, Zambada expressed remorse, stating he understood the detrimental impact of illegal drugs on both American and Mexican societies. He also admitted to perpetuating corruption in Mexico by bribing law enforcement and political figures.
This plea follows the decision by U.S. prosecutors not to pursue the death penalty against Zambada, who is currently 77 years old and reportedly in declining health. His arrest occurred in Texas last year after being allegedly betrayed by the sons of Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán, his former partner in the cartel, who is serving a life sentence after being convicted in 2019.
Following Zambada’s arrest, the Sinaloa Cartel has reportedly divided into two factions: one led by Zambada and the other by Guzmán’s sons, known as ‘Los Chapitos.’ The rivalry between the factions continues, particularly in Sinaloa.
Zambada’s guilty plea could lead to a more lenient sentence, with his formal sentencing scheduled for January 2026. His plea is an acknowledgment of the significant impact he has had in global drug trafficking and organized crime.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2eny8nz94vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss