### “I’m Not Resigning, Sheinbaum Supports Me,” Says Sinaloa Governor in San Lázaro
Rubén Rocha Moya, the Governor of Sinaloa since November 1, 2021, and a member of Morena, declared on October 1, 2024, that he has no intention of resigning from his position. The governor asserted that he has the support of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.
During an interview after the ceremony marking the inauguration of the first female President of Mexico, Rocha Moya stated, “There is no possibility of my resignation. We haven’t done anything that would lead to that.” He emphasized that his mandate comes from the people and they have his back. When questioned by a reporter about how many deaths would make him consider resigning, Rocha Moya responded, “No, no. Issues of violence, unfortunately, exist everywhere. We are addressing this with resolve and energy for the people of Sinaloa, and President Sheinbaum supports us. She was here in Sinaloa on Friday [September 27, 2024].”
On September 30, 2024, after 21 days of violent clashes between two factions of the Sinaloa Cartel, the state government announced a special operation named “Task Force.” Rocha Moya outlined this as a military intelligence operation which would involve the National Intelligence Center (CNI), aiming to locate over 130 people reported missing in the last 21 days.
The violence in Sinaloa has resulted in at least 132 deaths, including 20 individuals “neutralized” by the Army and National Guard, and 58 confrontations have occurred between two criminal groups. Fifty people have been arrested, and 20 civilians have been killed. Rocha Moya referred to civilian deaths as “neutralized persons,” and stressed the objective of combating the violent actors targeting society.
He announced the establishment of five anti-blockade zones on Sinaloa’s highways, with strategically placed tow trucks to respond quickly to any incidents. Furthermore, the governor detailed the confiscated items during security operations, which included firearms, explosives, vehicles (including several modified and armored ones), and large quantities of ammunition and drugs.
Among the many victims of this violence was Faustino Hernández Álvarez, a former local deputy and ex-candidate for Municipal President under thePRI, and president of the Sinaloa Regional Livestock Union (UGRS). Hernández Álvarez was assassinated on September 30, 2024, at his residence in Culiacán de Rosales.
### Additional Coverage on Sinaloa’s Security Situation
In related news, sources have reported that the surge in violence in Sinaloa has prompted further scrutiny and discussions at the national level. President Claudia Sheinbaum, during her recent visit, highlighted that strengthening the state’s security infrastructure is a priority for her administration’s first 100 days.
The increase in military and intelligence activity underscores a strong federal focus on mitigating cartel violence, suggesting a comprehensive approach combining local response capabilities with national oversight.
Community leaders and local businesses continue to express concerns about economic and social stability as security forces work to dismantle the violent factions within the Sinaloa Cartel. Public sentiment remains mixed, with some residents supporting the increased military presence, while others fear potential abuses and collateral damage.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds and authorities implement new strategies to restore peace and order in Sinaloa.