4 sources·Politics

Mexico Develops Elite Civilian Force to Tackle Drug Cartels Amid Rising Violence

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico is establishing an elite civilian unit to combat drug cartels, shifting from previous military-led strategies.

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  1. Mexico's security chief quietly forms an elite force to take on the drug cartels

    What followed were six years of what critics decried as militarization that effectively concentrated unprecedented authority in the hands of the armed forces.

    Mexico's security chief quietly forms an elite force to take on the drug cartels

    Associated PressAssociated Press·19d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  2. Sinaloa cartel slapped with Trump admin sanctions in blow to drug empire

    The sweeping move by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent came as the Trump administration continues to crack down on Mexican drug cartels.

    Sinaloa cartel slapped with Trump admin sanctions in blow to drug empire

    FOX NewsFOX News·19d
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  3. Mexico's Security Chief Quietly Forms an Elite Force to Take on the Drug Cartels

    What followed were six years of what critics decried as militarization that effectively concentrated unprecedented authority in the hands of the armed forces.

    Mexico's Security Chief Quietly Forms an Elite Force to Take on the Drug Cartels

    NewsmaxNewsmax·19d
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Right
    This outlet favors right-wing views.
  1. Associated Press
  2. FOX News
  3. Newsmax
Updated: Apr 1st, 2025, 5:55 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

In response to ongoing violence and the influence of drug cartels, President Claudia Sheinbaum is forming the National Operations Unit (UNO) to enhance law enforcement efforts. The unit, led by Omar García Harfuch, aims to address the shortcomings of previous military-focused approaches by rebuilding a specialized investigative force. Currently comprising 250 members with plans to expand to 800, UNO will operate under strict standards to avoid the issues of corruption and excessive force historically associated with special operations in Mexico. Its formation signals a strategic shift in combating cartel violence, particularly related to fentanyl trafficking.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

  • Mexico's government is identifying the need to move away from previous militarized strategies towards creating a specialized civilian force to combat drug cartels, particularly focusing on investigative capabilities.

  • As President Sheinbaum builds the National Operations Unit (UNO), she emphasizes the importance of trained professionals from law enforcement to effectively tackle crime and restore security.

  • Concerns remain about the new elite force's potential for misconduct, highlighting the necessity for internal controls and accountability to avoid past mistakes of special operations forces.

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