Culiacán sits at the heart of Sinaloa’s power — a hub of governance, crime, and influence shaping Mexico’s security and politics.
A senior figure in the CJNG, known as R-1, has been captured in Jalisco. Authorities say he masterminded the murder of a mayor and is linked to other high-profile killings, including the influencer Valeria Marquez. Dozens have been arrested in connection with the mayor’s murder; the case underscores the cartel’s reach across Michoacán and Jalisco.
César Gastélum has been killed on a Tuesday night in Culiacán, Sinaloa, while livestreaming with friends. A motorcyclist pulled up and shot him at close range before fleeing. Authorities say some posts he published referenced a criminal group, and officials are investigating whether his online content or associations contributed to the targeting. The killing adds to a pattern of influencer murders linked to cartel violence in the region.
The governor has resumed duties after a leave stemming from a US drug-trafficking indictment. Morena leaders deny prior knowledge of the move, urging restraint as investigations continue. The drama highlights tensions between Mexican authorities and the United States over cartel-linked charges.