Mexico's AG Accuses FBI of False Information in 'El Mayo' Case, Seven Investigations Open

Mexico's Attorney General Ernestina Godoy Ramos has accused the FBI of providing "false and imprecise" information concerning the arrest of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada García, the founder of the Sinaloa Cartel. Godoy stated that despite Mexico's requests for information, the FBI has not provided complete details or has supplied inaccurate data, which could constitute serious violations.

During the investigation in August 2024, Mexican agents were reportedly denied access to conduct necessary actions related to the "kidnapping" of Zambada. They were also prevented from taking photographs. Furthermore, the FBI allegedly failed to provide identification for the pilot who transported Zambada, stating only that the pilot requested immediate deportation to Mexico. Godoy highlighted that U.S. authorities have repeatedly provided false or imprecise identification data for the aircraft involved.

These accusations arise after conflicting accounts regarding Zambada's apprehension. In August 2024, the then-U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, claimed that U.S. agents or aircraft were not involved in Zambada's transfer, suggesting it was an intra-cartel operation. However, two years later, the FBI acknowledged its role in a "successful, planned, organized, and executed" operation to capture and transfer Zambada to the U.S.

Godoy outlined three significant implications of the FBI's alleged actions: violations of Mexican and international law, an "off-the-books" pact, and a falsehood from a U.S. diplomat, undermining diplomatic trust. Consequently, a new investigation has been initiated, and Mexico has requested specific information from the U.S. government. The Attorney General's office also reported that seven related investigations have been opened concerning homicide, kidnapping, disappearances, and obstruction of justice.