'SHELTER IN PLACE': Americans trapped in Mexico as cartel violence EXPLODES

Key Concepts

• El Mencho: Leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a major Mexican drug cartel, recently killed in a military operation.
• Shelter in Place: Directive issued to American citizens in Mexico following the violence, advising them to remain in secure locations.
• Border Security: Discussion surrounding the effectiveness of border security measures, particularly in relation to drug trafficking and illegal immigration.
• Angel Families: Families of individuals killed by illegal immigrants, receiving recognition from President Trump through a National Day of Remembrance.
• Fentanyl Crisis: The impact of fentanyl poisoning and its connection to border security and drug cartels.
• Cartel Violence: The escalating violence associated with drug cartels in Mexico and potential spillover effects.
• US-Mexico Border Patrol: The role and activities of border patrol agents in detecting and preventing illegal crossings.

Violence in Mexico & Border Security Concerns

The segment focuses on the aftermath of a Mexican military operation targeting El Mencho, leader of the CJNG cartel, which resulted in the deaths of over 25 Mexican National Guard troops and two dozen criminal suspects. Following this operation, dozens of American tourists in Mexico were instructed to shelter in place due to the ensuing violence. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that agencies are working to restore peace and security, emphasizing coordination between government and armed forces. She stated, “The most important thing at this moment is to guarantee peace in the safety of all the population of all of Mexico and that is being done today, there's more tranquility….”

Border Security Assessment & Current Activity

Terrell County Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland was interviewed regarding the potential for violence to spill over into the United States. He stated he doesn’t anticipate widespread violence crossing the border, citing the presence of Border Patrol and other security measures. He noted, “I don't see it spreading across the border…we won't have any spillover into U.S. soil.” However, he acknowledged the possibility of isolated incidents, such as stray bullets.

Sheriff Cleveland detailed current activity on the ground, mentioning that his office is assisting Border Patrol with the apprehension of a group of eight individuals detected by a sensor system near the border between San Antonio and El Paso. He indicated that this is a typical group size for illegal border crossings in his county. He emphasized the role of technology, specifically Predator drones used by Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in detecting illegal activity. He stated, “What spotted them was a Predator drone…that makes the border more safe and secure.”

He also highlighted the role of drug cartels in facilitating illegal crossings, noting that individuals typically pay bribes to cartels for assistance.

Impact of Previous & Current Administrations on Border Security

The interview included a discussion on the perceived differences in border security under the Trump and current administrations. Sheriff Cleveland credited President Trump with securing the border, stating that illegal activity has decreased. He noted, “Were still having the normal flow…a lot lower than what we discussed over the past four years.” He contrasted this with what he described as a more open border policy in the previous administration.

Recognition of "Angel Families" & the Fentanyl Crisis

The segment also covered President Trump’s proclamation declaring February 22nd as National Angel Family Day, honoring families who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by illegal immigrants. The President stated, “Throughout this I am joined by hard-working Americans who have lost parents, siblings, children…to the scourge of illegal immigration…These are the Angel Families that we love.”

Sheriff Cleveland emphasized the connection between the fentanyl crisis and border security, stating that many Angel Families have lost loved ones to fentanyl poisoning. He recounted his efforts to educate these families about the border situation, bringing them to the border to witness the challenges firsthand. He stated, “This is great for the families it means a lot to them…had we had a safe and secure border.”

US-Mexico Relations & the War on Cartels

Sheriff Cleveland characterized the situation as “a war with Mexico and the Mexican drug cartels,” emphasizing the significant impact of fentanyl and criminal aliens on the United States. He acknowledged the US assistance in taking down El Mencho, a leading trafficker of cocaine and fentanyl.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The segment paints a picture of a volatile situation in Mexico following the death of El Mencho, prompting safety concerns for American citizens. While Sheriff Cleveland asserts that the border is currently secure due to enhanced security measures, particularly those implemented under the Trump administration, the ongoing activity of drug cartels and the fentanyl crisis remain significant threats. The recognition of Angel Families underscores the human cost of illegal immigration and the ongoing struggle to address the border security challenges. The situation highlights the complex interplay between Mexican cartel violence, US border security, and the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and illegal immigration.