Strategic Threat: Narcos and Narcotics Overview
Document Type
Article
Department
Politics and Economics (CGU)
Publication Date
2010
Disciplines
Defense and Security Studies | Political Science | Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Abstract
This introductory essay provides a strategic overview of the threat posed by the largest Mexican drug cartels (The Federation, Gulf, Juárez, and Tijuana), and affiliated mercenary groups and street and prison gangs, to the United States. Cartel areas of operation in both Mexico and the United States are highlighted along with linkages to affiliated enforcers and gangs such as Los Zetas, the Mexican Mafia (La Eme), and Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13). The illegal economies of these threat groups – ranging from narcotics trafficking through commodities smuggling and theft, extortion and kidnapping, weapons trafficking, and street taxation – is discussed. The trans-operational environments involving US engagement with the Mexican cartels, mercenaries, and their Sureños affiliates is then characterized. Lastly, individual contributions to this work are summarized.
Rights Information
© 2010 Taylor and Francis
Terms of Use & License Information
DOI
10.1080/09592311003589229
Recommended Citation
Bunker, R. J. (2010). Strategic threat: Narcos and narcotics overview. [Special Issue: Narcos Over the Border: Gangs, Cartels, Mercenaries and the Invasion of America.] Small Wars & Insurgencies, 21(1), 8-29. doi:10.1080/09592311003589229
