In this insightful discussion, Ed Calderon, a former counter-narcotics expert, shares his harrowing experiences dealing with Mexican drug cartels. He discusses the chilling realities of cartel violence, including the normalization of brutality and the unique challenges faced by law enforcement. The conversation also delves into the alarming rise of fentanyl trafficking, the connections between Chinese interests and cartels, and the socio-political impact on communities. Calderon's stories emphasize the need for a collaborative approach to tackle the drug crisis effectively.
Law enforcement faces constant threat and coercion from cartels, leading to difficult decisions and resignations.
Cartels' expansion is driven by high demand for drugs in the US, Europe, and Canada.
Cartels operate through structured hierarchies with various arms and divisions to maintain control.
Mexican cartels extend influence globally through international partnerships and operations.
Cartels exploit human trafficking and slavery practices for profit and power.
Efforts to combat cartels require regional and international cooperation to address root causes of organized crime.
Deep dives
Daily Raids and Continuous Violence in Tijuana
The podcast delves into the intense daily life in Tijuana marked by continuous raids on cartels and escalating violence. The speaker recounts the high level of cartel presence, armed convoys, and dangerous encounters in the city, as well as the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining safety.
Impact of Cartel and Police Interactions
The episode highlights the offer of recruitment by cartels to law enforcement officers as well as the personal experiences of the speaker and their colleagues in resisting such offers. The narrative underscores the constant threat and coercion faced by law enforcement officials to work for the cartel, leading to difficult decisions and ultimately resignations.
Successes and Failures in Law Enforcement Efforts
The summary discusses the successes and failures of the law enforcement efforts in combating cartels in Tijuana. It outlines how specific administrations' strategies led to fluctuations in violence levels, from achieving relative calmness to a resurgence in dangerous cartel activities and escalating violence.
Cyclic Nature of Law Enforcement Strategies
The cyclical nature of law enforcement strategies in Mexico is emphasized, as new administrations often adopt contrasting approaches to tackling cartel violence, resulting in shifts in tactics and outcomes. The summary underscores the challenges of sustaining long-term plans and the impacts of political changes on law enforcement efforts.
Influence of Demand on Cartel Growth
Cartel organizations are driven by the demand for drugs, particularly in the US, Europe, and Canada. The exponential growth of cartels, like the New Generation Cartel, is fueled by the high demand for their products, especially in the US market. The increase in drug consumption and distribution routes, such as the shift from cocaine to heroin laced with fentanyl, contributes significantly to the expansion and power of these organizations.
Structural Organization of Cartels
Cartels operate through a structured hierarchy involving various arms, including enforcement, distribution, security, and administration. They utilize strategic divisions like cells to minimize risks and enhance control over illicit activities. These cells oversee drug routes, supervise distribution, manage finances, and execute enforcement operations, maintaining a complex network to ensure the smooth flow of operations.
Influence of International Relationships
Mexican cartels have extended their influence internationally, developing connections with countries like China and Africa. By engaging in partnerships and expanding operations beyond borders, cartels demonstrate a strategic approach to maximizing their reach and profits. This international network allows them to adapt, evolve, and maintain dominance in the drug trade.
Impacts of Human Trafficking and Slavery
In addition to drug trafficking, cartels engage in human trafficking and promote slavery practices to generate income. The exploitation of vulnerable populations, such as immigrants seeking to enter the US, highlights the dark side of cartel operations. By leveraging human lives for profit and engaging in illicit activities, cartels demonstrate a ruthless pursuit of wealth and power.
The Dream of Migration to the US
Many individuals migrate to the US from Mexico in pursuit of the American dream, seeking opportunity and a better life. The attraction of safety, freedom, and prosperity motivates individuals to cross borders, despite the risks involved. While some chase the dream of a better future, others flee conditions of poverty and violence in Mexico, highlighting the complex reasons behind immigration.
Evolution of Cartels and Cultural Exchange
Cartels in Mexico have evolved their strategies, adopting tactics from international organizations like Colombian cartels. The exchange of methods and influence has created a dynamic environment where cartels expand their operations globally. The cultural, religious, and historical contexts, such as veneration of saints like Santo Nino La Toccha, reveal the interconnected nature of criminal enterprises.
Challenges and Impact of Enforcement Efforts
Efforts to combat cartel activities face significant challenges due to their adaptive nature and global reach. As cartels expand, infiltrate various sectors, and evolve their operations, law enforcement agencies struggle to keep pace with their strategies. The influence of cartels across borders amplifies the complexity of enforcement, requiring coordinated international efforts to address the root causes of organized crime.
The Influence of Pablo Escobar on Cartel Culture
Cartel members idolize Pablo Escobar and model themselves after him, creating a legend similar to his. The impact of popular media, like Netflix series, perpetuates the legend of figures like Escobar.
The Evolution of Cartel Culture in Mexico
Cartels in Mexico are creating their own legends akin to Escobar, with figures such as El Chapo inspiring a new generation and shaping youth culture. The glorification of cartel leaders like El Chapo is influencing the youth.
The Dangers and Realities of Cartel Involvement
Cartels in Mexico use rituals and iconography, such as worship of Santa Muerte, to instill fear and control. The influence of cartels extends to political assassinations, systemic corruption, and the recruitment of child soldiers.
Addressing the Cartel Issue: Regional Solutions and Political Corruption
Combatting cartels requires a regional approach, addressing corruption at high political levels in Mexico, and holding power structures accountable. Legalizing marijuana, targeting illicit funds, and acknowledging systemic corruption are key steps.
Facing the Complexity of Cartel Control and Military Intervention
The complexities of cartel power, corruption, and potential responses highlight the challenges in combating cartels effectively. Recognizing the interconnectedness of drug trade, political motivations, and societal impact is crucial to addressing the issue.
Embracing Cultural and Spiritual Approaches to Healing
Exploring shamanistic practices and the use of psychedelics for healing trauma and processing experiences. Highlighting the importance of intention-setting, guidance, and self-reflection in therapeutic approaches.
Navigating the Uncertainty and Awaiting Regional Consequences
Anticipating potential future events on the US-Mexico border stemming from resource disputes, foreign influence, and escalating cartel activities. Assessing the likelihood of US military intervention and the need for a coordinated regional strategy.
Acknowledging Personal Growth and Resilience
Reflecting on personal progress, purpose, and impact, acknowledging the journey of self-discovery and the importance of sharing experiences to help others. Recognizing the need to find meaning and inspire change amidst adversity.
In this episode of The Shawn Ryan Show, former Navy SEAL/CIA Contractor Shawn Ryan sits down with Ed Calderon. For over a decade Ed Calderon worked in the fields of counter narcotics, organized crime investigation, in the northern-border region of Mexico. He is a considered to be one of the top experts in the operations and tactics of the Mexican Drug Cartels and Narcos. Shawn and Ed discuss everything from Ed's personal experiences fighting cartels face to face and the mental and physical scars it has left behind forever, to why China is involving themselves in cartel operations deep in Mexico to how the Cartels are effectively utilizing American street gangs to push more drugs into the United States.
