The Mexican cartel patches aren’t just for show—they tell a story. From the fierce rooster of Jalisco to the cartoon mouse of Sinaloa, these patches represent power, loyalty, and fear. They’re like gang tattoos, marking who’s who in the underworld. But what do they actually mean? And why do cartel members wear them like badges of honor? Let’s take a closer look at the hidden messages behind these infamous emblems.
The Rooster of Jalisco
A striking emblem in the world of cartel insignias is the rooster, often found on patches associated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This symbol directly ties to one of the cartel’s most infamous leaders, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.” His nickname, “Lord of the Roosters” (El Señor de los Gallos), stems from his deep passion for cockfighting—a traditional and still-popular pastime in rural Mexican states such as Michoacán, where he was born, and Jalisco, where he now operates.
Grupo X
Another significant CJNG symbol, bearing resemblance to the insignia of the so-called Mencho Special Forces, is that of Grupo X. This faction represents one of the cartel’s most formidable armed divisions. Reports from Mexican media suggest that Grupo X operates primarily in Michoacán and was established to combat rival factions such as Cárteles Unidos and the Correa organization. Authorities first identified this group in May 2021 when they discovered an abandoned vehicle marked with its distinctive emblem.
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Ratón Special Forces
Ovidio Guzmán López, a key figure within the Sinaloa Cartel and son of the notorious Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, leads a faction known as the Chapitos. His nickname, “El Ratón” (The Rat), has ambiguous origins—some speculate it references his stature, while others believe it signifies his affinity for certain animals. Despite its seemingly unflattering nature, Ovidio has fully embraced the moniker. Members of his faction sport patches featuring a cartoon mouse, an image that gained notoriety in July 2022 when authorities arrested 14 Chapitos operatives in Mexico City, many of whom were wearing these insignias.
La Kena 19
While CJNG and the Sinaloa Cartel are most recognized for their use of military-style patches, they are not the only groups to do so. The Gulf Cartel (CDG) has also utilized these emblems, particularly in northeastern Mexico.
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One of their prominent leaders, José Alberto García Vilano, alias “La Kena” or “Ciclón 19,” created a patch that stood out for its intricate design. His emblem featured a scorpion, symbolizing the Scorpions faction of the CDG, along with a phoenix and an eagle. The number 19, displayed in Roman numerals (XIX), signified his position within the Cyclones faction, which he commanded.
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Cartel patches serve as more than just identifiers; they symbolize power, allegiance, and the mythology surrounding these criminal organizations. As Mexican authorities continue their crackdown, these emblems remain an evolving part of the underworld’s visual language.