#1302 - Ed Calderon
The Joe Rogan Experience
概要
アウトライン
0:00:00Surviving in Hostile Environments
This section details a conversation between Ben and Ed Calderon, a non-permissive environment specialist with law enforcement experience in Northern Mexico. Ed explains his role in teaching survival skills such as escaping restraints and navigating dangerous areas. He recounts his unexpected transition into urban warfare amidst Mexico's escalating cartel conflict post-9/11. The narrative delves into the heightened security measures impacting border towns and the economic downturn caused by tightened borders. Ed shares the militarization of law enforcement efforts under Felipe Calderon's presidency, highlighting the corruption and fear-based dynamics prevalent in the past. The summary underscores the transformation of Northern Mexico into a battleground for drug routes and the organized crime war plaguing regions like Tijuana. The account sheds light on the initial blind eye approach of authorities towards cartel activities and the subsequent militarized response to combat narcotic operations.
0:07:07Challenges in Counterinsurgency Efforts Against Cartels
This section delves into the challenges faced in transforming law enforcement operations into a counterinsurgency approach against cartels along the Mexico border. A security specialist highlighted the shift towards militarization to combat cartel activities. The narrative exposes the personal risks and corruption prevalent within the force, with instances of extortion, violence, and fear-based coercion. Stories of dramatic encounters, including abduction and brutal interrogations, underscore the intense environment. The discussion also touches on the elaborate escape tactics of notorious figures like El Chapo, highlighting the deep-rooted corruption facilitating their operations. The narrative sheds light on the complex dynamics, including the unexpected intersections of celebrity culture with criminal entities, exposing the unsettling glorification of criminal figures amidst widespread harm and violence.
0:14:37Impacts of Cartel Influence on Society in Mexico
This section delves into the extensive influence of cartels on society in Mexico, particularly highlighting the complex web of support and control they exert. The text describes how a prominent figure, akin to El Chapo, garnered allegiance through providing essential services like schools and hospitals, thereby gaining a human shield of protection. It questions the rationale behind targeting such figures who seemingly benefit the community, detailing the power dynamics and alliances among cartel leaders. Furthermore, it explores the evolving drug trade landscape, including the rise of new cartels focusing on different substances like heroin and meth. Amid government efforts to combat cartels, there is a recurring cycle of promises to eradicate them, often overshadowed by political shifts and controversial proposals like amnesty. The current trend suggests a resurgence in cartel-related violence, posing challenges for security and stability in Mexico.
0:21:56Challenges in Mexican Law Enforcement
This section describes the complexities and challenges within Mexican law enforcement, particularly in combating cartels and ensuring integrity within police forces. The narrative highlights issues such as cartel violence, inadequate training of military in police roles, corruption within federal police, and the difficulty in purging corrupt officers despite filtration efforts. The conversation underscores the lack of trust and accountability among law enforcement, pointing towards systemic obstacles and the urgent need for reform. Additionally, it touches on the ongoing debate around drug decriminalization and the impact on cartel activities in Mexico.
0:29:22Impact of Drug Legalization and Production Changes on Drug Circulation
This section discusses the potential repercussions of drug legalization in one region on drug production and circulation in another. The speaker highlights a shift in drug production in response to legalization, leading to the emergence of lighter-colored heroin and Fentanyl. The change in product composition is noted as a contributing factor to the heroin and Fentanyl epidemics in the speaker's area. The discussion touches on the connection between drug cartel power, drug demand in the United States, and the implications of drug trafficking. Furthermore, the conversation delves into the challenges of border security, including the limited effectiveness of physical barriers like walls and the use of submarine and drone technology for drug smuggling. The dialogue also references historical events like the CIA drug plane crash and the controversial 'Fast and Furious' operation, shedding light on the complexities and potential corruption within law enforcement and government agencies involved in drug control efforts.
0:35:53Escalating Cartel Violence and Conspiracy Theories
This section describes the alarming escalation of violence and conspiracy theories surrounding the Fast and Furious operation involving illegal firearms trafficking between the United States and Mexico. The narrative unfolds with accounts of bloodshed, deaths, and disturbing incidents, including a little girl losing her arm and the fatal consequences of the operation. The discussion delves into the questionable decisions behind providing guns, leading to unsettling conspiracy theories and suspicions of government involvement. As details emerge about the operation's aftermath, such as the discovery of US-origin guns with unique accessories, the text unveils a chilling perspective on potential war scenarios and retaliation strategies, like poisoning drug loads. The narrative culminates in the revelation of the staggering number of firearms involved and the dangerous arms race between law enforcement and cartels, showcasing the dark reality of violence and brutality in the region.
0:42:46Challenges in Mexico's Cartel War
This section delves into the harrowing reality of the cartel violence in Mexico, where the disappearance of bodies leaves families searching fruitlessly for their loved ones. The deep-rooted issue of youth involvement in cartel activities results in entire generations being decimated. The discussion highlights the failure of short-term plans to combat cartels, the allure of US funding for counter-narcotics operations, and the systemic challenges within Mexico's law enforcement. The narrative also touches on the dangerous territory of rejecting cartel recruitment, the glorification of gangster culture, and the absence of professionalism in the police force, ultimately portraying a bleak outlook on law enforcement in Mexico.
0:50:13Cartel Influence in the US
This section discusses the shifting landscape of cartel influence in the US, highlighting the emergence of American-born individuals with connections to cartels and the increased activity of cartels on American soil. It addresses the challenges of border security, emphasizing the complexity of the issue beyond physical barriers like walls. The text underscores the diversification of cartel activities beyond drug trafficking, encompassing various criminal enterprises like human trafficking and piracy. Additionally, it delves into the unique dynamics of cartel culture, including the role of music and the intertwining of criminal and artistic spheres. The narrative touches on the global reach and influence of cartels, showcasing their adaptability and the multifaceted nature of their operations.
0:57:38Mexican Cartels and Occult Influence
This section delves into the intertwining culture of violence, religion, and occultism within Mexican cartels. It discusses the influence of death cult worship, the presence of occult iconographies empowering individuals across various sectors, and the historical roots tracing back to Aztec traditions. The narrative highlights the brutal cartel executions, the phenomena of cartel-inspired extremism, and the societal depth of this interconnected culture. The stark contrast between opulence and violence along the Mexico-US border is explored, shedding light on the normalization of extreme violence and criminal activities. The cyclical nature of cartel crimes evolving from inter-cartel conflicts to extortion and ruthless violence against innocent civilians is portrayed as a sociopathic progression. The narrative also touches on successful counterinsurgency strategies in Tijuana and the challenging prospects of replicating such approaches on a broader scale amidst political complexities and ongoing cartel dominance.
1:05:39Reflections on Drug Enforcement and Legalization
This section reflects on the frustrations and futility felt by a former individual connected to drug enforcement activities in Mexico. The narrator shares a personal anecdote of burning pot fields in Baja, experiencing a political shift, and ultimately leaving the job due to personal reasons. The narrative explores the contrast between past dangerous pursuits and the present legality of marijuana in certain states, highlighting the absurdity and complexity of drug enforcement. The discussion delves into the changing perceptions of marijuana, the economic and political implications, and the generational attitudes towards drug culture and law enforcement. It ends with contemplation on the challenges posed by migrant caravans and the evolving dynamics of drug-related issues in Mexico.
1:12:29Migrant Caravan Controversy in Tijuana
This section narrates the controversial arrival of a migrant caravan in Tijuana, Mexico. Initially doubted, the caravan's direct journey to Tijuana sparked memes and divided opinions. While some locals welcomed them, Tijuana's conservative stance led to protests with 'Make Tijuana Great Again' hats. Concerns arose over gang members among the migrants and complaints about shelter conditions. The clash highlighted racial tensions and differing views on immigration. The caravan's disruptive impact, including crime and business closures, fueled political debates and social media scrutiny. The narrative exposed complexities of border dynamics, political divisions, and socioeconomic contrasts, reflecting broader global migration challenges.
1:18:56Security Concerns and Criminal Activities in Mexico
This section discusses the prevalent security issues and criminal activities in Mexico, particularly along the northern border area. The text highlights the risks faced by Americans traveling to Mexico, the involvement of cartels in criminal activities like druggings and abductions, and the intricate relationships between resorts and cartel interests. It also touches on the lack of recognition for veterans and the challenges faced by combat veterans in Mexico. The narrative includes anecdotes about the presence of military forces, the normalization of violence, and the unique dynamics involving Mormon communities and their conflicts with cartels. The text sheds light on the complex interplay of law enforcement, government, and civilians in navigating the dangerous landscape of Mexico.
1:26:03Security Concerns in Mormon Communities
This section describes a peculiar scenario in a Mormon community located in Mexico. The text discusses the community's military-like defense mechanisms, including machine gun nests and restricted access points. It recounts incidents of abductions and the community's actions in procuring firearms to protect themselves. The text delves into the history of the Mormon migration to Mexico due to polygamy laws, highlighting the unique cultural blend in the community. Furthermore, it touches on the presence of Mexican converts and the defensive nature of multiple Mormon communities in the region. The conversation shifts to the speaker's reflections on American ignorance of Mexico's complexities, particularly regarding cartel activities on both sides of the border. The speaker debunks misconceptions about Mexico's problems being solely internal and emphasizes the interconnectedness of issues between Mexico and the United States. Personal anecdotes highlight the complexities of combating cartel influence, with mention of political figures advocating for collaboration against cartel operations. The text concludes with a grim portrayal of the violent reality in Mexico, likening it to the Wild West and underscoring the courageous efforts of individuals fighting against corruption and violence.
1:32:45Insights on Criminal Activities in Mexico
This section details a harrowing account of a notable firefight in Tijuana at La Cupola, a stronghold of a cartel, where a tragic sequence of events unfolded. Uniformed police officers were engaged in a shootout, revealing the pervasive corruption within law enforcement. The narrative highlights the constant evolution of criminal tactics, from traditional methods like drug mules and tunnels to the use of unmanned drones for smuggling. The speaker, Ed Calderon, shares his firsthand experiences working in the dangerous border area, emphasizing the need for awareness and sharing of such experiences. Through his Instagram account, Ed Manifesto, he sheds light on critical issues and promotes situational awareness. Calderon's unique perspective, shaped by his border work and interactions with law enforcement agencies, underscores the importance of sharing experiences for learning and improvement. He challenges the perception of self-worth prevalent among Mexicans and advocates for the value of creative solutions born out of challenging environments. His insights aim to provide a realistic perspective on Mexico, dispelling misconceptions and promoting informed discussions on the country's complex security landscape.
1:40:08Discussion on Movie Realism and Cartel Terrorism
This section discusses the speaker's views on the realism of movies depicting cartel activities and the potential declaration of cartels as terrorist organizations. The speaker criticizes the unrealistic portrayal of cartels in movies like Sicario 2 and highlights the potential influence of fiction on reality. The conversation delves into the implications of the United States considering cartels as terrorists, drawing parallels to past events. The looming possibility of militarizing efforts against cartels raises concerns about open warfare near the border. The dialogue also touches on cultural preparation for potential actions, hinting at undisclosed conversations and misdirection in public narratives. The guest, Ed Calderon, shares insights on the topic and promotes his online platforms for further engagement.