Osiel Cárdenas Guillén released from US prison, faces deportation

Osiel Cárdenas Guillén, a notorious drug lord and former head of the Gulf cartel, has been released from a U.S. prison after serving most of a 25-year sentence. His release was confirmed by a U.S. Bureau of Prisons official, who stated that he is now in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, indicating a likely deportation to Mexico. Upon his return, he faces two arrest warrants, suggesting he may be detained immediately. Cárdenas Guillén is infamous for his role in creating the Zetas, a violent gang composed of former Mexican special forces soldiers. This group was responsible for numerous brutal acts, including the slaughter of migrants and innocent civilians. His leadership led to a significant escalation of violence in Mexico, with the Zetas committing acts of terror that included decapitations and mass killings. Despite his capture in 2003 and subsequent extradition to the U.S. in 2007, the Zetas continued to operate and even formed their own cartel by 2010. The Gulf cartel, which he once led, has since fragmented due to internal conflicts among various factions. Cárdenas Guillén's nickname, “El Mata Amigos,” reflects his ruthless reputation, further solidified by his brazen confrontation with DEA agents in 1999. As he faces potential detention in Mexico, the implications of his release could reignite violence and instability in the region, as his criminal legacy continues to influence drug trafficking dynamics. The situation remains fluid, with law enforcement closely monitoring developments following his return to Mexico.