Security Assessment / Kidnapped Miners in Sinaloa

Security Assessment. President Claudia Sheinbaum and Marcela Figueroa, Head, Executive Ministry of the National Public Security System (SESNSP), reported a 42% reduction in intentional homicides between September 2024 and January 2026. Figueroa detailed that the daily average fell from 86.9 to 50.9, marking the lowest figure in 17 months. She noted that 50.6% of these crimes are concentrated in seven states, including Guanajuato, Baja California, and the State of Mexico.

Minister of  Defense Ricardo Trevilla reported that 18,000 weapons have been seized during the current administration, with approximately 78% originating from the United States. He highlighted the confiscation of 215 high-power .50 caliber weapons and 137,000 cartridges, noting that 47% of this ammunition is traceable to companies in the southern US.

Minister of Security Omar García Harfuch presented a balance of the administration's security achievements, citing 43,438 arrests for high-impact crimes since Oct. 1, 2025. He also highlighted the seizure of 327t of drugs, including 1,800kg of fentanyl and over 4 million fentanyl pills, as well as the dismantling of 2,000 methamphetamine labs.

Kidnapped Miners in Sinaloa. Harfuch reported that five of the 10 missing miners have been identified. Regarding the investigation, he clarified that the detainees arrested in connection with the case are confirmed members of a Los Chapitos cell. These suspects stated that the abduction occurred because they confused the workers with members of a rival criminal group.

Kidnapped Tourists in Sinaloa. Addressing a separate case in Sinaloa, García Harfuch reported that a family of tourists was intercepted by a criminal group. While two members were released shortly after, four remain held. Authorities are working with the state government to locate them, though no arrests have been made in this specific case yet.

Missing Persons Registry. President Sheinbaum announced that her government will present a complete diagnosis of the National Register of Missing Persons later this month. The review aims to clarify the status of records, distinguishing between those with full information, active investigation files, and those already located, to strengthen search efforts.

Oil Shipments to Cuba. President Sheinbaum defended the recent oil shipments to Cuba, clarifying that they fulfill both pre-existing purchase contracts and humanitarian aid needs. She asserted that this is a sovereign decision to support the island against the economic blockade and that such solidarity will continue.

Tequila Mayor. President Sheinbaum validated the appointment of the new mayor of Tequila, Jalisco, following the arrest of the previous official. She stated that the designation by the local council adhered to the legal framework and instructed the Interior Ministry to maintain close contact with the municipality during this transition.

Measles Strategy. President Sheinbaum announced a reinforced vaccination strategy to control measles outbreaks, specifically noting rising cases in Jalisco, Mexico City, and the State of Mexico. She assured the public that sufficient vaccines are available and coordination is underway to contain the spread.