Los Zetas: Mexico's Second Most Powerful Drug Cartel

INTRODUCTION.

Recognized as one of the most fearless and violent cartels in all of Mexico, Los Zetas was brought forth by a need for personal security in the Gulf Cartel. This former hit man/security style operation, active since 1997, has since grown into its own ruthless and violent organization becoming the second most powerful cartel and easily the most feared in all of Mexico. Heavily trained and armed, members of Los Zetas are set apart from other cartels because of the level of brutality they are willing to administer to those who cross them, though they had initially hoped that by being more intimidating they would have to fight less. It is their command of the drug market, their lack of fear in using violent tactics, and the sheer level of brutality used by their members that sets this cartel apart from all others. It is their disregard for human life and their ties to the United States drug markets that cause Los Zetas to pose a significant danger to border communities across the southern border of the U.S.

ORIGINS.

The organization of Los Zetas, brought forth by a significant need the Gulf Cartel had for its own personal security team, was created in 1997. To create such a specialized team, Gulf Cartel, based in Mexico, enlisted the aid of thirty-one Special Forces deserters from the Mexican Army. These members called themselves Los Zetas, the Z’s (S. Logan 2009). Specially trained in surveillance methods, hostage rescues, prison escapes, and experts in weaponry these highly skilled Los Zetas quickly became an integral part of the Gulf Cartel’s operations (Longmire 2012). Their primary mission, while serving within the ranks of the Gulf Cartel, was the protection of future leader Orsiel Cardenas Guillen. Additio...

... middle of paper ...

... Zetas an organization the United States should continue to be wary of. This organization will stop at nothing to continue to try and grow their enterprise and are not afraid to engage in gun battle with authorities nor harm civilians. Los Zetas present a serious danger to the United States.

Works Cited

Logan, Sam. "The Evolution of "Los Zetas," a Mexican Crime Organization." ISN Security Watch, March 16, 2009.

Logan, Samuel. "A Profile of Los Zetas: Mexico's Second Most Powerful Drug Cartel." Combating Terrorims Center At West Point, February 16, 2012.

Longmire, Sylvia. "Mexico's Drug War: TCO 101: Los Zetas." April 2012.

McLaughlin, Eliott C. "Trevino's Los Zetas known for 'complete absence of scruples,' expert says." CNN, July 17, 2013.

NarcoGuerra Times. "Zetas/La Compania, Ndrangheta and the Nuclear Options." NarcoGuerra Times, September 19, 2009.