Considered one of the founders of the CJNG, his experience in organized crime dates back to his time with the Milenio Cartel. His split with 'El Mencho' not only marked the birth of the Nueva Plaza Cartel but also an internal war that temporarily weakened both factions. After his capture and subsequent extradition to the United States, many assumed his organization would disappear. In federal security circles, a concern is beginning to grow: the reorganization of organized crime. Following the eventual fall of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 'El Mencho', the focus is not only on the fragmentation of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) but also on the possible resurgence of an old acquaintance: the Nueva Plaza Cartel, a group that, far from disappearing, is said to have survived in the shadows. The scenario being drawn is one of a dispute for territorial control in Jalisco, particularly in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, where violence could escalate if this group decides to resurface. How did the Nueva Plaza Cartel emerge? The Nueva Plaza Cartel was born from an internal split. Its origins trace back to the break between two old allies: Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 'El Mencho', and Erick Valencia Salazar, 'El 85'. Since then, the confrontation between both sides translated into episodes of extreme violence, disappearances, and armed clashes. Although over time the CJNG managed to assert itself both in media presence and operational strength, intelligence reports indicate that Nueva Plaza was never completely dismantled. Instead, it opted for a low-profile strategy, maintaining active cells and local networks that could be reactivated today. Who is 'El 85', the founder of the Nueva Plaza Cartel? Erick Valencia Salazar, 'El 85', is a key figure to understanding this story. Both came from the now-defunct Milenio Cartel and were key players in the founding of the CJNG, an organization that quickly consolidated itself as one of the most powerful in the country. However, differences over leadership triggered the conflict. 'El 85' decided to split and form his own criminal structure, giving life to the Nueva Plaza Cartel, which began to dispute strategic territories in Jalisco. However, authorities warn that its structure survived. Even without its visible leader, the group is said to have continued operations through mid-level commanders.
