A Social Network Analysis of Mexico’s Dark Network Alliance Structure

This article assesses Mexico’s organized crime alliance and subgroup network structures. Through social analysis (SNA) of data from Lantia Consultores , a consulting firm in Mexico that specializes the public policies, it demonstrates differential structures within bipolar illicit system. The Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación’s (CJNG) structure is top-down hierarchical, while Sinaloa Cartel denser, particularly broader Tierra Caliente region. Additionally, our found sparse overall with many isolates (groups no relations to other groups) disconnected components. Further, we identified networks might fill future power vacuums based on their positions, following state or rival high-value targeting major cartels. implications these findings are discussed, policy recommendations provided.