Mexico’s security minister revealed that 17 relatives of Ovidio Guzmán, son of Sinaloa Cartel co-founder Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, have entered the U.S. as part of a negotiation with authorities, raising questions about the cartel’s future. This development follows Ovidio’s plea deal in 2025. This article explores the case, Mexico’s archaeological heritage, and celebrates its culture with a traditional recipe.
Negotiations and the Sinaloa Cartel
On May 13, 2025, Mexico’s Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch confirmed that 17 relatives of Ovidio Guzmán, extradited to the U.S. in 2023 for drug trafficking charges, entered the U.S. to negotiate with authorities. These relatives, including El Chapo’s ex-wife and daughter, are not wanted in Mexico, but their move is linked to Ovidio’s plea deal, confirmed on May 6, 2025, for his role as a logistical coordinator in the Sinaloa Cartel. Barron’s The U.S. Department of Justice has declined to comment, prompting Mexico to request more transparency. El País
[](https://www.barrons.com/news/drug-lord-s-relatives-enter-us-as-part-of-negotiation-mexico-df9d642e)[](https://english.elpais.com/international/2025-05-13/mexico-asks-us-to-clarify-if-ovidio-guzmans-mother-and-16-relatives-crossed-the-border.html)Ovidio’s brother, Joaquín Guzmán López, was arrested in July 2024 alongside cartel co-founder Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, who claimed he was kidnapped. Both are in plea negotiations, signaling a potential shift in the cartel’s dynamics. The Guardian
[](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/oct/21/el-chapo-sons-plea-deal)
New Developments and Context
The Sinaloa Cartel, once led by El Chapo, who is serving a life sentence, has faced internal rifts. In 2024, posts on X highlighted tensions, with some claiming Joaquín Guzmán López betrayed El Mayo to gain leverage in U.S. negotiations. Additionally, the 2019 “Culiacanazo” incident, where Ovidio’s brief arrest sparked violent clashes in Culiacán, underscored the cartel’s influence. BIMCA These events suggest that the family’s move to the U.S. could be a strategic maneuver to secure leniency or protection.
[](https://bimca.es/amp/news/carlo-ancelottis-multi-million-contract-reportedly-revealed-how-much-will-he-earn-as-brazils-national-team-coach/)Archaeological Fact: Mexico’s Ancient Legacy
Mexico, at the heart of this case, boasts a rich history. An intriguing fact: the 1968 discovery of the Tlatelolco archaeological site in Mexico City revealed a 14th-century Aztec ceremonial center, shedding light on the civilization’s complex urban planning. This heritage contrasts with Mexico’s modern challenges, such as cartel influence.
Connecting with Mexican Culture: Pozole Recipe
To celebrate Mexico’s vibrant culture, here’s a recipe for *pozole*, a traditional hominy stew often served at gatherings, symbolizing community and festivity.
Mexican Pozole Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 6):
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 large can (30 oz) white hominy, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 1 tsp oregano
- 8 cups chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Shredded cabbage, radishes, lime wedges, and tortilla chips for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook Pork: In a large pot, simmer pork in chicken broth with onion, garlic, and salt for 1.5 hours until tender.
- Prepare Chiles: Soak guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for 15 minutes. Blend with 1 cup soaking liquid, oregano, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Combine: Add chile sauce and hominy to the pot. Simmer for 30 minutes, adjusting seasoning.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with cabbage, radishes, lime, and tortilla chips.
Conclusion
The entry of Ovidio Guzmán’s relatives into the U.S. marks a pivotal moment in the Sinaloa Cartel’s saga, with plea deals potentially reshaping the organization. As Mexico and the U.S. navigate this complex case, Mexico’s ancient heritage and culinary traditions, like pozole, remind us of its enduring cultural depth. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.