What are the main reasons behind the conflict between El Mayo and the Chapitos

Introduction

NEW DETAILS OF GOVERNMENT PLAN TO TRACK DOWN AND ARREST FOUR OF EL CHAPO'S SONS

Jesús Alfredo Guzmán Salazar, known as Alfredillo, is believed to be at the top of the heap.

The conflict between El Mayo’s faction and Los Chapitos within the Sinaloa Cartel stems from several key factors

Who are EL chapo sons

Jesús Alfredo Guzmán Salazar, also known as “Alfredillo,” is one of the sons of notorious drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán.

He is part of the group known as “Los Chapitos” (The Little Chapos), who took over leadership of the Sinaloa Cartel after their father’s extradition.

A federal arrest warrant for Jesús Alfredo Guzmán Salazar was issued on April 6, 2023, in the Northern District of Illinois for charges including Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Running a Continuing Criminal Enterprise, and Money Laundering.

The U.S. State Department has offered a reward of $10 million for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

As of July 26, 2024, Jesús Alfredo Guzmán Salazar and his brother Iván Archivaldo Guzmán Salazar were reported to still be at large.

He is considered armed and dangerous, and is known to possess firearms.

Jesús Alfredo Guzmán Salazar continues to evade capture, unlike some of his brothers who have been arrested in recent operations targeting the Sinaloa Cartel leadership.

Power Vacuum and Succession

The arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada on July 25, 2024, created a significant power vacuum, leading to a struggle for control of the cartel. This event disrupted the leadership structure and sparked a succession crisis.

Ideological and Operational Differences

Approach to Violence

El Mayo was known for his measured approach and preference for operating behind the scenes through corruption. In contrast, Los Chapitos have been more brazen and violent in their operations.

Business Practices

El Mayo reportedly objected to Los Chapitos’ disregard for long-standing cartel rules, particularly their involvement in the fentanyl trade, which drew unprecedented attention from U.S. law enforcement.

Betrayal and Mistrust

El Mayo claimed he was betrayed by Joaquín Guzmán López, one of El Chapo’s sons, who allegedly handed him over to U.S. authorities. This perceived betrayal intensified the animosity between the factions.

Territorial Expansion

The conflict escalated when Los Chapitos attempted to invade territories historically controlled by the Zambadas, such as Costa Rica and El Salado. This territorial encroachment was a direct challenge to El Mayo’s faction.

Generational Divide

A rift has emerged between the older generation of cartel leaders, represented by El Mayo, and the younger generation led by Los Chapitos. This generational conflict has led to differing priorities and methods within the organization.

Alliance Shifts

El Mayo’s son, Ismael Zambada Sicairos (El Mayito Flaco), has reportedly formed new alliances with other criminal groups to counter Los Chapitos’ power, further complicating the internal dynamics of the cartel.

Conclusion

The resulting violence has led to hundreds of deaths, forced disappearances, and significant disruption in Sinaloa, particularly in Culiacán, as both factions vie for control of the cartel’s vast criminal enterprises.