Violence in Sinaloa Due to the War Between the ‘Chapitos’ and the ‘Mayiza’

Today, September 9th, marks two years since the conflict between *La Mayiza* and *Los Chapitos* began. However, let me correct that: what truly marks these two years is the nightmare that the people of Sinaloa—especially those living in Culiacán—have endured. 

Here is a summary of what has transpired. As we know, it all started with the betrayal of Ismael Zambada by one of Chapo Guzmán’s sons; both men are now detained in the United States. It must be noted, however, that there has been a downward trend this year. 

High-impact crimes surged starting September 9, 2024, peaking between June and July 2025. Over these 24 months, 3,181 murders have been recorded across Sinaloa according to the State Prosecutor’s Office, although media tallies indicate the figure exceeds 3,800. 

Regarding unlawful abductions, there have been 4,006 cases as of July of this year, according to the State Public Security Council—though, again, search collectives maintain the actual number is higher; for instance, the group *Sabuesos Guerreras* estimates at least 6,500 cases. 

Car theft has also risen, as members of these factions—criminals—steal vehicles to commit further crimes, set them ablaze, or use them to blockade roads. More than 10,000 thefts have occurred, with nearly all involving violence. 

Most of these incidents took place in Culiacán, although the State Secretariat of Public Security reports a 46% drop in such crimes this year. Beyond the fear and other social harms, the economic crisis persists; in fact, Coparmex Sinaloa describes it as the state’s worst, noting that recovery could take at least a decade. 

Just yesterday, Standard & Poor’s downgraded the state’s long-term credit rating due to persistent liquidity pressures. Thousands of businesses have closed, and thousands of people have lost their jobs. Regarding what I mentioned about Standard & Poor’s, they maintained a stable outlook for the entity. 

But of everything I have just told you, perhaps one of the most difficult, painful, and unforgivable aspects is that at least 250 children and adolescents have been murdered. These figures come from the Network for Children’s Rights in Mexico. 

The most recent case—which we are reporting here—is that of Juan Alejandro, a baby just one year and four months old who died after being caught in the crossfire of an armed attack in Culiacán.

Source: NMás