10 current and former Mexican officials accused in US indictment of aiding drug trafficking
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- The governor of Sinaloa, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other current and former Mexican officials were charged in a U.S. indictment with drug trafficking and weapons offenses linked to aiding the Sinaloa Cartel in smuggling narcotics into the United States.
- The indicted officials include members of Mexico’s ruling Morena party, creating political challenges for President Claudia Sheinbaum, who denies evidence of corruption and faces pressure from the U.S. to act.
- The indictment alleges these officials protected cartel leaders from law enforcement actions, provided sensitive information, and facilitated drug shipments in exchange for millions in drug money, with ties to the cartel faction led by El Chapo’s sons.
- Rocha rejected the charges as baseless and a political attack on Morena, stating he plans to remain in Sinaloa and dismissing concerns about the indictment’s impact.
- The case intensifies the balancing act for Sheinbaum, as arresting Rocha could strain domestic politics ahead of elections, while failing to act risks worsening relations with the U.S. amid ongoing anti-corruption efforts.
