Sinaloa Security Chief Resigns Amidst Cartel Conflict & Security Changes

Sinaloa Security Chief Steps Down After 15 Months

Culiacán, Sinaloa – After nearly fifteen months leading the state’s public security efforts, General Óscar Rentería Schazarino has stepped down as Secretary of Public Security for the state of Sinaloa. The resignation, reported on March 12, 2026, marks the third change in leadership of the agency during Governor Rubén Rocha Moya’s administration. Details surrounding the reasons for Rentería Schazarino’s departure have not been publicly disclosed.

Rentería Schazarino assumed the position on December 21, 2024, replacing General Gerardo Mérida Sánchez, who had served in the role for only four months – from August to December of the same year. This turnover occurred amidst a period of heightened conflict between rival criminal organizations, often referred to as “Chapitos” and “Mayos,” within the state. The change in leadership was proposed by the current Secretary of National Defense, Ricardo Trevilla Trejo.

The appointment of Rentería Schazarino followed a period of evaluation and decision-making, with officials citing the necessitate for adjustments in the state’s preventative police command structure. The decision to select Rentería Schazarino came after a meeting of an elite group, according to reports. His swearing-in ceremony took place at the Ninth Military Zone in Culiacán, rather than at the governor’s office.

A Rapid Succession of Leaders

Rentería Schazarino’s fifteen-month tenure continues a pattern of relatively short assignments for the head of Sinaloa’s public security apparatus under Governor Rocha Moya. Prior to Rentería Schazarino, Gerardo Mérida Sánchez served for a brief period, and before him, Cristóbal Castañeda Camarillo held the position. Castañeda Camarillo now serves in the same capacity in the State of Mexico.

The frequent changes in leadership come as Sinaloa continues to grapple with significant security challenges. Rentería Schazarino’s time in office coincided with ongoing operations coordinated between the Defense Secretariat, the Secretary of the Navy, the National Guard, and state authorities, all aimed at addressing the state’s security situation.

The GOES and Military Involvement

During his leadership, Rentería Schazarino oversaw the Special Operations Group (GOES), a unit comprised exclusively of military personnel operating as state preventative police agents. This reliance on military personnel within the state police force reflects a broader trend of increased military involvement in public security roles across Mexico.

The presence of Secretary of Public Security and Citizen Protection, Omar García Harfuch, at Rentería Schazarino’s swearing-in ceremony underscored the federal government’s engagement in the state’s security strategy. Governor Rocha Moya emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between federal and state forces, noting the ongoing observation and support from President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.

What’s Next for Sinaloa Security?

As of March 12, 2026, the state government has not announced a successor to Rentería Schazarino. However, officials indicated that a replacement would be presented publicly on Monday, March 16, 2026. It remains unclear whether the latest appointee will also be a military figure, or if the state will pursue a civilian leader for the agency.

The outgoing Secretary’s return to active military service suggests a potential reassignment within the armed forces. However, specific details regarding his future role have not been released. The ongoing security situation in Sinaloa, marked by conflict between criminal groups and the continued need for coordinated operations, will likely shape the priorities of the incoming Secretary of Public Security.

The state government anticipates presenting its successor on March 16th, according to reports. Diario de la Yaqui reports that Rentería Schazarino’s term lasted approximately 15 months.