Mexico City, Mexico – The United States Department of the Treasury has sanctioned Mexican rapper El Makabelico, whose real name is Ricardo Hernández Medrano, for allegedly laundering money for the Cartel del Noreste (CDN), one of the most violent criminal organizations in Mexico.
According to US authorities, the artist — also known as Comando Exclusivo — used revenue from concerts, live performances, and music streaming royalties to channel funds to the cartel. Officials estimate that up to 50% of his earnings were directed to the criminal group, which operates primarily in northern Mexico.
As part of the sanctions, El Makabelico has been added to the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) list, resulting in the immediate freezing of all his assets in the United States and prohibiting any US-based entity or individual from conducting financial transactions with him.
Other Cartel del Noreste members sanctioned
In addition to El Makabelico, US authorities also targeted three high-ranking members of the CDN:
- Abdón Rodríguez, alias Cucho
- Antonio Romero, alias Romeo
- Francisco Esqueda, alias Franky Esqueda
These individuals are accused of direct involvement in drug trafficking, extortion, money laundering, and acts of extreme violence.
Part of a broader crackdown
The sanctions are part of a broader US strategy to dismantle the financial networks of Mexican cartels, especially those using public figures or entertainment platforms to legitimize illicit operations.
El Makabelico, known for his “narco rap” style, has built a large fan base online, amassing millions of streams. The case has sparked intense debate in Mexico and abroad, as it highlights how organized crime can infiltrate the music industry.
