Sheinbaum denies link with ‘El Mayo’ Zambada’s lawyer and demands thorough investigation

• Sheinbaum Denies Knowing Mayo Zambada’s Lawyer
• No Complicity with Anyone
• Photos Do Not Imply Any Connection

Claudia Sheinbaum has denied knowing Juan Pablo Penilla, the lawyer of Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada, and refuted any allegations of «complicity» with the notorious drug trafficker.

During her press conference at the National Palace, the president stated: «The important thing here is to say, emphasize, and guarantee to the people of Mexico that we do not establish relationships of complicity or collusion with anyone. With no one.»

Sheinbaum insisted: «I don’t know this person, and it’s important to clarify this because a photograph surfaced. But during the campaign, on tours, you end up taking pictures with a lot of people.»

The president highlighted that during this past weekend alone, countless pictures were taken.

President Claudia Sheinbaum Rejects Allegations and Calls for an Investigation

She specified: «Just this weekend—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—I must have taken 2,000, 3,000, or even 4,000 photos. Many people approach for a picture, and when you’re out there, you don’t always know exactly who you’re taking a picture with.»

Sheinbaum firmly rejected any suggestion that her administration maintains secret agreements or relationships with individuals connected to organized crime.

The president stated that if there is any evidence against Penilla Rodríguez, it is up to the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) to open a thorough investigation.

She also criticized the alleged connection, noting: «Now it turns out that this person (Penilla Rodríguez) was awarded by a PAN congresswoman,» a comment made amid accusations lacking substantial evidence.

The controversy intensified after claims surfaced that the lawyer had been appointed an honorary advisor to the government of Tamaulipas—an allegation that was later denied by both state authorities and Ricardo Monreal, the coordinator of Morena deputies.

Sheinbaum emphasized that the constant flow of photographs during public events makes it difficult to accurately identify every individual she interacts with.

The president reiterated her administration’s guiding principles: «Our project is based on not stealing, not lying, and not betraying the people.»

These statements come amid heightened tensions following the arrest of ‘El Mayo’ Zambada on July 25, 2024, in the United States.

Security Crisis and Response to Drug Trafficking

Zambada, facing charges of organized crime, homicide, large-scale drug trafficking, and money laundering, is currently being held in New York.

The situation has worsened after the U.S. government, led by Donald Trump, officially designated six Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations last week.

You may also like: Mexico is considering the request for the repatriation of ‘El Mayo’ Zambada from the US

Additionally, the surge of over 800 homicides in Sinaloa and the violent clashes between Los Chapitos and Los Mayos reflect the deepening security crisis in the country.

In this context, authorities are expected to thoroughly investigate any evidence linking drug trafficking figures to high-ranking officials, ensuring transparency and justice in the process.

Meanwhile, Mexican citizens demand that the government’s commitment translates into concrete actions to restore public trust and strengthen the fight against organized crime.

SOURCE: EFE / Diario de México

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