Archive · 6 Aug 2025
U.S. Sanctions Mexican Cartel Figures, Including Rapper El Makabelico
The U.S. government has taken action against some people in Mexico they believe are helping a dangerous drug group called the Cartel del Noreste.
These people, including a famous musician named El Makabelico, are accused of helping the cartel with money laundering and other illegal activities.
The government says the musician's music events and streaming money are used to help the cartel.
The government is trying to stop these activities and keep the public safe.
The Cartel del Noreste is known for being very violent.
The U.S. Treasury sanctioned four individuals linked to the Cartel del Noreste.
El Makabelico, a popular musician, is among those sanctioned for alleged money laundering.
The Treasury claims 50% of El Makabelico's streaming royalties go to the cartel.
The Cartel del Noreste is considered one of Mexico's most violent drug trafficking organizations.
The sanctioned individuals are accused of involvement in drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering.
- Who
- The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned four individuals, including El Makabelico, who are linked to Cartel del Noreste.
- What
- The U.S. Treasury announced sanctions against individuals linked to the Cartel del Noreste.
- When
- Wednesday (unspecified year).
- Where
- U.S. and Mexico (specifically the U.S.-Mexico border).
- Why
- The sanctions are intended to target the cartel's activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and money laundering.
Government View
N/A
Government Action Justified
Government View
The U.S. government believes these individuals are involved in criminal activities and must be stopped.
N/A
N/A
- Targeted Individuals
- El Makabelico, Abdon Rodriguez, Antonio Romero, and Francisco Esqueda
- Accusations
- Drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering
- Cartel Involved
- Cartel del Noreste
- El Makabelico's Role
- Alleged money laundering, with 50% of royalties going to the cartel
- Treasury Secretary's Statement
- Scott Bessent