Treasury Targets Hip-Hop Star Linked to Mexican Cartel in Sanctions Sweep
The U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions against four individuals affiliated with Mexico's Cartel del Noreste, including hip-hop artist El Makabelico. The sanctions target figures involved in money laundering and drug trafficking. The cartel, deemed a terrorist organization, operates heavily along the U.S.-Mexico border.
The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on the assets of four individuals associated with Mexico-based Cartel del Noreste. Among them is Ricardo Hernandez, known as the hip-hop artist El Makabelico. This move targets three high-ranking members and a key associate of the notorious cartel.
El Makabelico, who boasts a large online following, allegedly utilizes concerts and streaming royalties for money laundering operations benefitting the cartel. In response, Spotify is evaluating the situation while Apple and YouTube have yet to issue a statement.
The Treasury identified other sanctioned members as Abdon Rodriguez, Antonio Romero, and Francisco Esqueda. This action follows the May sanctioning of two other cartel leaders as part of ongoing efforts against organizations dealing in drugs and human smuggling, particularly near the U.S.-Mexico border.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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