Following the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of Mexico’s Jalisco New Generation Cartel, widespread unrest has erupted across the country. Authorities have revealed that the cartel has increasingly utilized cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Monero, and Tether to launder proceeds from drug sales, particularly for purchasing materials used in fentanyl production. Despite El Mencho’s demise, the cartel’s financial operations remain sophisticated and technologically advanced, posing significant challenges for Mexican law enforcement agencies. Cryptocurrencies are playing an increasingly evident role in the drug war, as they help obscure transaction records and evade the international financial system. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is one of the most powerful and dangerous drug trafficking groups in Mexico, having earned billions from fentanyl and other illicit trades over the years. Their use of digital currencies complicates monitoring efforts since these currencies operate differently from traditional banking systems. In response, Mexican authorities have announced stricter oversight of cryptocurrency usage to financially weaken drug trafficking operations. Experts warn that cartel technologies continue to evolve, necessitating advanced and coordinated strategies for effective countermeasures. Overall, while El Mencho’s death marks a significant turning point in the drug trade, the cartel’s financial strength and cryptocurrency use have intensified the conflict, raising concerns about ongoing instability in Mexico.
Source: binance
