

500: Ed Calderon | Survival Secrets of a Drug War Veteran Part One
Apr 27, 2021
Ed Calderon, a non-permissive environment specialist with over a decade in counter-narcotics in Mexico, shares gripping insights into the world of drug cartels. He discusses how these groups infiltrate and dominate regions while evading law enforcement. The deadly surge of cartel-related violence in 2020 is examined, alongside the unsettling truth about mass graves in the country. Calderon also highlights the complex relationship between U.S. politics and Mexican cartels, shedding light on the challenges faced by those who dare to fight back.
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Guadalajara's Importance
- Guadalajara, Jalisco, is a key state in Mexico due to its proximity to Pacific ports.
- These ports facilitate the shipment of meth precursors, fentanyl, and other substances, even during times of heightened security.
Guadalajara Then vs Now
- Jordan Harbinger recounts his experience living in Guadalajara 20 years prior, noting its relative safety at the time.
- He contrasts this with the current state of violence, where minor disagreements can escalate to mass killings.
Cartel Control Strategy
- Cartels gain control by establishing themselves, arming better than local police, and then influencing all levels of society.
- They use a "Hearts and Minds" strategy similar to the US military in Iraq, providing services and building influence where the government fails.