Today, we delve into one of the most infamous crime families in Mexico: The Beltrán Leyva. This powerful clan, originating from Badiraguato, Sinaloa, built their empire through drug trafficking, violence, and corruption.
Initially operating as an armed wing of the Sinaloa Cartel, the Beltrán Leyva brothers broke away from Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán in 2008 to establish their own cartel. Their influence quickly spread across Guerrero, Michoacán, Morelos, and Mexico City.
In Guerrero, they created factions like Los Rojos and Los Ardillos, which now dominate poppy and marijuana production.In Michoacán, they fueled the expansion of local cartels.
The connection between Unión Tepito and Guerrero’s groups is critical. Los Rojos and Los Ardillos handle production in Guerrero’s mountains, while Tepito serves as the main distribution hub in the capital. Their route? It all flows through the Mexico-Puebla highway, entering via Nezahualcóyotl and ending in secret warehouses in Venustiano Carranza, near the International Airport.
This alliance not only ensures a constant drug supply but also a steady influx of weapons and hitmen to maintain control in both territories.
Even after their downfall, the Beltrán Leyva brothers left behind a legacy of crime and violence that continues to impact the nation.