Part 11/15:
Looking ahead, Schultz predicts that CJNG will continue to expand its influence. She warns that succession battles, especially if their leader is truly dead or compromised, might lead to internal conflicts or fragmentation. Still, their core strength—vast territorial control, political influence, and brutal enforcement—indicates they are poised to dominate Mexican crime scenes for the foreseeable future.
Vargas sees their brand-building of fear as fundamental. CJNG's violent reputation and violent acts—like the high-profile Ranchu Ser incident—serve to sustain their aura of invincibility. Their aggressive expansionist tactics and alliances—even if behind the scenes—are likely to persist unless significant geopolitical intervention occurs.