Sheinbaum: U.S. still hasn't sent details on arrest request for Rocha; leave was personal decision

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that the United States has not yet provided the requested information regarding accusations made by the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha Moya and nine other officials. The DOJ's accusations, related to alleged involvement in weapons and drug trafficking offenses, were made on April 29.

Sheinbaum indicated during a press conference that Mexico has not received any urgent arrest information for extradition. This comes despite Governor Rocha Moya's decision to request a leave of absence on May 1, an action taken even without further statements or evidence from the U.S. concerning his alleged involvement.

When questioned about Rocha Moya's decision, Sheinbaum clarified that it was a personal choice. She recalled the governor stating his intention to step aside to avoid casting doubt on Sinaloa's governance while the investigation proceeds. "I don't want to cast doubt on Sinaloa's governability, much less. I prefer to leave the post while this investigation continues," Sheinbaum quoted Rocha Moya as saying.

The situation highlights a diplomatic information gap between Mexico and the U.S. concerning the ongoing investigation. The governor's voluntary leave of absence underscores the political sensitivity surrounding the U.S. accusations, even in the absence of detailed information being shared with Mexican authorities.