**Crackdown on Band That Praises Notorious Cartel Leader**
The United States and Mexico have united in a decisive move against the Mexican music band, Los Alegres del Barranco, following performances where they extolled El Mencho, a notorious drug lord and leader of the CJNG cartel. Both countries have revoked the band members’ work and tourist visas, adhering to a zero-tolerance policy against narco-promotion.
This crackdown traces back to their concerts in Jalisco and Michoacán, which featured laudatory songs and video tributes dedicated to El Mencho, a fugitive and leader of one of Mexico’s most violent cartels. Christopher Landau, former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, highlighted the consequences of glorifying criminal figures, stating, “Freedom of speech doesn’t come with freedom from consequences.”
In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has prompted an investigation to condemn the actions. The mayor of Zapopan has also filed a formal complaint with the Jalisco State Attorney’s Office, targeting both the band and the venue, the University of Guadalajara Auditorium. As a result, Zapopan authorities have imposed a fine of 300 Unidades de Medida y Actualización (UMA), equivalent to 33,942 pesos.
The message is clear from both sides of the border: glorifying cartel executives bears serious repercussions. Attention performers and influencers alike—praising cartel figures is no longer in harmony with acceptable standards, whether in cowboy hats or business suits.
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**Secondary Article – Heightened Cross-Border Measures Against Drug Cartels**
Amid rising cartel violence, the U.S. and Mexico are intensifying cross-border efforts to combat influential drug organizations. The joint operations between these neighboring countries aim to dismantle criminal networks and curb the flow of illicit substances.
Recently, the U.S. has taken notable steps, including sharing intelligence with Mexico to facilitate targeted actions against cartel kingpins like El Mencho, whose CJNG cartel is a significant source of violence and drug trafficking. This strategic collaboration has resulted in several successful raids, with key arrests and the seizure of substantial narcotics and arms.
On the Mexican side, strengthened security measures involving military and federal police forces have been initiated to secure regions heavily impacted by cartel activity. Additionally, there is a push to implement social programs to address poverty and corruption, often exploited by cartels to gain community support.
In light of these concerted efforts, authorities express cautious optimism that these initiatives will yield tangible results in restoring safety and stability across the regions affected by cartel influence.