https://nltimes.nl/2025/02/17/dutch...ng-linked-betrayal-within-sinaloa-cartelMonday, 17 February 2025 - 22:00
Dutch crime boss Marco Ebben’s killing linked to betrayal within Sinaloa Cartel
Dutch drug trafficker Marco Ebben was allegedly betrayed by members of his own cartel faction before he was fatally shot in Atizapán, Mexico, on Feb. 13. New details from Mexican authorities and media reports suggest that Ebben’s murder was orchestrated by figures within the Sinaloa Cartel who feared he would disclose sensitive information if captured by law enforcement.
According to sources cited by Mexican newspaper Milenio, the 32-year-old Dutchman was under surveillance by elite counter-narcotics units linked to Mexico’s navy. The operation was reportedly set to culminate in his arrest on the day of his murder. However, three gunmen intercepted him outside a luxury gym, shooting him before authorities could detain him.
Mexican law enforcement had reportedly been monitoring Ebben’s activities in Atizapán for weeks and had pinpointed his daily routine. His scheduled arrest was planned for just minutes after he left the Sports World gym. Investigators now believe that cartel insiders became aware of the operation and ordered his killing to prevent him from providing intelligence to the authorities.
Ebben, who was known as “El Holandés” within cartel circles, had been involved in drug trafficking and arms deals for over a decade. He was closely aligned with Ismael ‘El Mayo’ Zambada’s faction in the Sinaloa Cartel, which has been locked in a violent struggle with the rival faction led by the sons of jailed cartel boss Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán.
