For today’s episode I was joined by Traces of Reality contributing editor Danny Benevides. Danny and I had an extended conversation on some of the most recent events regarding the drug war south of the border. Danny explains what the vigilante movement in Michoacan, know as the autodefensas, is doing to combat the rising tide of cartel violence. We also explore how the autodefensas movement may be being co-opted by the new PRI government headed by Enrique Pena Nieto as well as foreign actors. Danny breaks down the history of the cartels in Michoacan state. Danny explains how La Famila splintered off into Los Caballeros Templarios, and how average citizens decided to take action against them. We also discuss the recent uptick in violence in the northern state of Tamaulipas and how this relates to the “capture” of Sinaloa cartel leader El Chapo. We round off the conversation by discussing actor Kevin Spacey’s $8 million dollar selfie with Pena Nieto and what this means for the future of Mexico.
Show notes:
Danny Benavides archives on Traces of Reality
Is the US helping Mexico undermine Michoacan’s vigilantes?
Outside drug cartels, rouge vigilantes set sights on Michoacan
Autodefensas surround Templarios Leader La Tuta
Mexican drug cartel behind lime shortage in US; margaritas feel pinch
Cartel violence ramps up in Mexican border state of Tamaulipas
Tampico Tamaulipas: Dismembered bodies with narco message
16 bodies discovered in Tampico and Hidalgo Tamaulipas
How much did the Mexican government pay Kevin Spacey for a selfie with President Pena Nieto?
Music:
Porkins Policy Review 