By Natalia Rueda 
A Texas judge approved the early transfer and subsequent trial of Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada, a major figure in Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel. Zambada, co-founder of the cartel, was captured last July 25, along with Joaquin Guzman Lopez. His arrest and impending trial in New York and then Texas has set off a frenzy, including notable resignations in Sinaloa, Mexico.
The Unexpected Resignation
The trial against Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada has prompted the voluntary resignation of Sinaloa Attorney General Sara Bruna today, August 16, sending shockwaves through state institutions. The details of the exact reasons for her sudden resignation remain unclear, as there was no clarification from either the state prosecutor’s office or Quiñonez Estrada.
Accusations against Joaquín Guzmán López
Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada’s capture directly implicates Joaquín Guzmán, popularly known as ‘El Chapito’, for treason. There are allegations that Guzmán kidnapped ‘Mayo’ Zambada in Mexico and smuggled him to the United States. This act is considered a severe crime in Mexico, punishable by imprisonment of up to 40 years.
Zambada’s version of events, as told by his lawyer in a letter, presents a different narrative. He claims to have been kidnapped and forcibly taken to the United States, against his will. The 76-year-old drug lord also denies any agreements with the authorities of either country, stating that he was brought to the US in an “absolutely irregular” manner.
While Zambada’s lawyer maintains that his client did not turn himself in voluntarily, Mexican authorities believe that the evidence lies in the United States. They also claim that Zambada’s meeting was a planned exchange and not a forced abduction.
As Zambada’s legal battle unfolds, many questions remain unanswered. Was he a willing participant or a victim of circumstances? Will his arrest have any impact on the Sinaloa Cartel’s operations? Only time will tell as the mysterious case of ‘El Mayo’ Zambada continues to unravel.
With information from France 24