Mexico security forces shut down five synthetic drug laboratories across states

Mexican authorities have shut down five clandestine laboratories used for the production of synthetic drugs in the states of Sinaloa, Jalisco and Nayarit.

The operations resulted in the seizure of nearly 10,000 litres of chemical precursors and more than seven tonnes of chemical substances and products linked to methamphetamine production.

A video released by Secretariat of the Navy of Mexico, on Sunday,  showed personnel from the Secretariat of the Navy, the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection, and the Attorney General’s Office securing the laboratory sites during coordinated raids.

Synthetic drug production remains a growing issue in Mexico

Drug trafficking and synthetic drug manufacturing continue to pose major security and public safety challenges in Mexico. Criminal organisations have expanded the use of hidden laboratories in rural and isolated areas to produce methamphetamine and other narcotics.

Mexican authorities have continued operations against these networks as organised crime groups strengthen their control over drug production and trafficking routes.

Officials confirmed that the chemical materials and substances discovered during the raids were neutralised.

Three of the five laboratories were located in Sinaloa, where authorities confiscated 2,750 litres of chemical precursors and 1,000 kilograms of methamphetamine alongside other substances.

Major methamphetamine seizures recorded in Jalisco and Nayarit

In Saucillo de Maldonado, Jalisco, security personnel recovered 600 kilograms of finished methamphetamine, 750 litres of chemical precursors and 425 kilograms of solid substances.

In El Capomo, Nayarit, authorities seized 780 kilograms of solid methamphetamine and 300 litres of liquid methamphetamine.

Official sources stated that the seizures caused losses exceeding 650 million pesos, equivalent to around 37.5 million US dollars and 32.25 million euros.

Jalisco New Generation Cartel affected by operation

Authorities said the operation mainly impacted the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, also known as CJNG, which allegedly operated within the laboratories discovered in Jalisco and Nayarit.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is one of the most powerful organised crime groups in Mexico. The cartel is widely linked to methamphetamine production, drug trafficking and violent criminal activity across several regions of the country. Mexican security forces have frequently targeted the organisation due to its growing influence in the illegal drug trade.