Amid a historic drought, cartels such as CJNG and Sinaloa have found a new source of power: they are seeking to venture into water. Water has been a resource that is scarce in major cities across the country.
These groups drill pipelines, divert rivers, and control wells to supply illegal crops and sell the liquid on the black market. Meanwhile, thousands of families lack access to this vital resource. In less than eight hours, criminals steal up to 100,000 liters (26,417 gallons) of water, leaving entire communities without supply.
The cartels not only steal water, they also extort farmers and distributors. In regions such as Sinaloa, "Los Chapitos" impose illegal fees on those who transport water, forcing producers to pay quotas to maintain supply. This practice has caused a clandestine market where the price of water skyrockets, affecting the local economy and food security.
Lack of government action.
Despite complaints and evidence, authorities have shown a limited response. The National Water Commission (Conagua) has identified more than 5,000 illegal taps in the north of the country, nearly triple the number from five years ago. However, penalties are scarce and impunity prevails.
The absence of an effective plan on the part of the Morena government has allowed organized crime to grow stronger. The lack of oversight and corruption in water distribution systems has made it easier for the cartels to control this essential resource.
