US Cancels Visas of Mexican Music Group Over Cartel Promotion

An image of a cartel leader was screened during a concert by the Mexican band Los Alegres de Barranco (The Happy Boys From Barranco). Image posted by US Department of State on X.

Introduction to the Incident

The U.S. government has cancelled the visas of members of a Mexican music group called Los Alegres del Barranco. This happened after the band showed an image of drug cartel boss “El Mencho” during a concert in Mexico.

“El Mencho”, whose real name is Nemesio Oseguera Ramos, leads the dangerous Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The U.S. sees this group as a terrorist organization.

US Reaction to the Incident

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said the band was promoting a criminal. He posted on social media that people who praise criminals and terrorists should not be welcomed into the U.S.The band had planned to play shows in many U.S. states, including Texas, California, and Oklahoma. Their music style, known as norteño, is very popular in Mexican-American communities.

The Concert and the Music Style

At the concert in Zapopan, Mexico, the band sang a song that called El Mencho a “man of war” who “loves his family” and leads the “cartel with four letters” (CJNG). This kind of song, called a narcocorrido, is common in Mexico. These songs often praise drug lords and are sometimes paid for by the criminals themselves.

Los Alegres del Barranco have another song called The 701, which is about Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, another famous cartel boss. It talks about his money and fame.

Investigation and Reaction from Mexican Authorities

The concert took place shortly after a ranch connected to the CJNG was found. The site was used to train people, some of whom were killed. Investigators found shoes, suitcases, bones, and ovens at the location.

Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, also criticized the band. She said the incident was wrong and asked for an investigation.

Band’s Reaction to the Controversy

The band’s singer reacted to the controversy on TikTok, saying he thought it was “cool” that the president mentioned them and thanked fans for their support.

Sources: CNN, BBC.

Conclusion

The cancellation of the visas of Los Alegres del Barranco members by the US government is a significant step in condemning the promotion of criminal activity. The incident highlights the complex relationship between music, crime, and politics in Mexico and the US.