Mexican Singer Natanael Cano and Others Threatened by Drug Cartel, Offered State Protection

Mexican Authorities Offer Protection to Artists Threatened by Drug Cartel

Authorities in Mexico are offering state protection to famed regional Mexican singer Natanael Cano and other artists after a drug cartel in northern Mexico publicly threatened them. The threats came in the form of a social media post from "Jalisco Matasalas," a group within the Sinaloa Cartel, accusing the singers of "financially helping" a rival gang known as "Salazares."

The banner, signed by "Jalisco Matasalas," threatened the lives of Cano and other artists in the Sonora region. It warned them to "cut the crap" and "mind your own business," or face being shot. The Sonoran Prosecutor's Office confirmed the authenticity of the threat and opened an investigation.

In response, authorities offered state protection to the artists to prevent any further aggression. The nature of this protection remains undisclosed. Cano's communications team has not yet responded to requests for comment.

This incident highlights the complex relationship between Mexican music and drug cartels. Corridos, a musical genre often linked to drug cartel violence, has experienced a resurgence in popularity. However, artists in this genre have long faced criticism from authorities and threats from gangs.

In 2023, Peso Pluma, another Mexican artist, was forced to cancel a show in Tijuana after receiving threats from a rival of the Sinaloa Cartel. Tijuana later banned the performance of narco ballads altogether to protect young people from the influence of violence.

The recent threats against Cano follow a surge in violence in Sinaloa and other northern Mexican states. This violence is linked to the capture of drug boss Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada and the ensuing power struggle within the Sinaloa Cartel.