Why it matters: This article highlights the ineffective raids conducted by the Mexican government on suspected fentanyl labs. These raids, which were carried out in response to pressure from the United States, have primarily targeted inactive labs, raising concerns about the seriousness of Mexico’s efforts to combat the flow of fentanyl into the US.
What they are saying: Data obtained through a freedom of information request revealed that between January and August 2023, at least 95% of the raids were on labs that had already shut down production. Some speculate that this discrepancy may be due to the hands-off approach of President Lopez Obrador, who prioritizes addressing poverty instead of directly targeting cartel leaders. Others suggest that the Mexican government may be inflating the number of raids conducted to appease the US.
The big picture: The ineffective raids on inactive labs suggest that the Mexican government’s efforts to combat fentanyl production and trafficking may not be as robust as previously believed. This raises concerns about the cooperation between Mexico and the US in addressing the fentanyl crisis and saving lives.
What to watch: It remains to be seen whether the recent banners banning fentanyl production in Sinaloa will have any significant impact on fentanyl production. As the US continues to pressure Mexico to take more action, it will be important to monitor whether there are any changes in Mexico’s approach to combating fentanyl production and trafficking.
My take: The findings of this investigation are concerning and suggest that Mexico may not be fully committed to addressing the fentanyl crisis. The focus on inactive labs raises questions about the effectiveness of the raids and whether they are being conducted for show rather than as a genuine effort to combat fentanyl production. Cooperation between Mexico and the US is crucial in tackling the fentanyl crisis, and it is essential for both countries to prioritize effective action to save lives.
