- Why is the deportation of a key Chavista figure to the US so important?
- How will Colombia’s elections affect organized crime in the country?
- What does the surrender of two officials mean for the US case against Mexican politicians?
We explain in this week’s On the Radar.
Alex Saab Was Deported to the United States
On May 16, Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez deported Alex Saab to the United States.
Who is Alex Saab?
Saab is one of former president Nicolás Maduro’s key financial figures within the regime, who faces accusations of money laundering in the United States. If he cooperates, he could provide key insights into broader US investigations linked to Venezuela’s political and financial structures.
Saab’s deportation is just one example of how Rodríguez’s government is seeking favor with the United States after Maduro’s arrest. In the past few months, it has also allegedly dismissed thousands of police for corruption, reassigned military leadership, and released hundreds of political prisoners, but these measures have often been partial, opaque, and ineffective at delivering meaningful improvements in security.
Colombia Elections and Organized Crime
Just weeks before Colombia’s presidential elections, several criminal groups—including the Central General Staff (EMC), National Liberation Army (ELN), and the Gaitanistas—have announced ceasefires and ordered their members not to interfere in the vote. But in the departments of Tolima, Meta and Guaviare, there have been reports of criminal groups using social control tactics aimed at influencing the election results.
These elections bring an end to President Gustavo Petro’s term, as well as his flagship “Total Peace” policy to negotiate with the country’s armed groups and criminal organizations.
Depending on who takes power, the country’s security strategy could shift drastically.
Mexican Officials Linked to Rocha Moya and Chapatis Surrender to the United States
Gerardo Mérida and Enrique Díaz, two of the nine officials accused by the United States alongside former Sinaloa state governor Rubén Rocha Moya, who has taken a leave of absence, of having ties to the Chapitos faction of the Sinaloa Cartel surrendered to US authorities.
The move suggests both officials may be seeking to cooperate with the US Justice Department in exchange for reduced sentences.
For more analysis of Venezuela’s anti-crime efforts, the Colombian criminal landscape, and US security strategies in the region, visit insightcrime.org.