A cartel leader’s July 20 court hearing may trigger violence in Sinaloa, Mexico; expect heightened security.

Authorities assess that Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada’s final hearing in the United States on July 20 could prompt retaliatory violence throughout Sinaloa, Mexico, including the cities of Mazatlan and Culiacan. Authorities may increase their presence due to escalating confrontations. In past instances, there have been skirmishes between security forces and criminals.