dailyloe.com – On April 30, 2026, U.S. prosecutors from the Southern District of New York accused ten Mexican officials, including Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, of colluding with the Sinaloa Cartel. This accusation has intensified scrutiny on Mexico’s political landscape, particularly regarding its relationship with the United States.
The Sinaloa Cartel was founded by Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán and Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada. The allegations suggest that Rocha received support from the cartel for his election, enabling them to operate without state intervention.
Rocha has publicly denied these allegations, labeling them as “calumny” that lacks “veracity and foundation.” He asserts that the accusations are politically motivated and aimed at undermining Mexican sovereignty.
Claudia Sheinbaum, the current president and member of the same political party as Rocha, stated that the government would not protect anyone who has committed a crime. She emphasized the importance of defending Mexico’s sovereignty against foreign interference.
Sheinbaum remarked that this situation is unprecedented, stressing that Mexico will not allow external governments to influence its internal decisions. Rocha’s political career has been historically significant, with deep roots in the Mexican left.
Born on June 15, 1949, in Badiraguato, Sinaloa, Rocha’s birthplace coincides with that of “El Chapo” Guzmán, further fueling suspicions regarding his connections to drug lords. The media attention on Rocha is notable due to his close ties with President López Obrador.
The accusations against Rocha and other officials highlight ongoing concerns about drug trafficking’s impact on governance in Mexico. The situation continues to evolve as both sides navigate the implications of these serious allegations.
