Cartel crimes are a range of illicit activities, including 

drug trafficking, human trafficking, and weapons trafficking, that cartels engage in to fund their operations. They also commit violent crimes like murder, kidnapping, extortion, and rape to maintain control over their territories and to eliminate rivals. These activities can involve all levels of a cartel, from street-level “falcons” who conduct surveillance to drug lords who plan high-profile assassinations. 

Types of cartel crimes

• Drug trafficking: The primary business of many cartels, involving the production and distribution of illegal drugs.
• Human trafficking: Involves the smuggling and exploitation of people, including migrants.
• Weapons trafficking: The acquisition and distribution of firearms, often used to arm cartel members.
• Extortion: Threatening individuals or businesses with violence or harm unless they pay a fee.
• Kidnapping: The abduction of individuals for ransom or other purposes.
• Murder: The killing of rivals, law enforcement officials, journalists, or anyone who interferes with cartel operations.
• Rape: Sexual violence, which is sometimes used as a weapon.
• Bribery: Corrupting public officials to gain an advantage or avoid prosecution.
• Other crimes: This can also include activities like arson, theft, and money laundering. 

Impact of cartel crimes

• Violence: Cartel activities have led to a significant increase in violence, including homicides, and have fueled turf wars between rival groups.
• Displacement and migration: Violence and instability caused by cartels have displaced many people and contributed to migration flows from affected regions.
• Social and economic costs: Cartels’ activities have a devastating impact on communities, with women and girls being particularly vulnerable to crimes like sex trafficking and sexual assault.