Exploiting Weaknesses: An Approach to Counter Cartel Strategy

Abstract

This thesis, "Exploiting Weaknesses: An Approach to Counter Cartel Strategy," provides an in-depth case study analysis of the Los Zetas transnational criminal network to gain an understanding of its weaknesses and vulnerabilities. First, the thesis utilizes social movement theory to illuminate the structural and other key essential factors that make Los Zetas vulnerable to disruption. Then the thesis identifies Los Zetas' means of financial support to expose its insidious methods. Finally, the thesis utilizes social network analysis and geographical information systems to gain a better understanding of Los Zetas' organizational networks, its possible safe havens, and its key terrain. The employment of the aforementioned theories reveals essential vulnerabilities that form the basis of a recommended disruption strategy against Los Zetas.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA556751

Entities

People

  • Dennis J. Castellanos
  • Enrique J. Reyna

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Human Systems
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Criminals
  • Drug Trafficking
  • Employment
  • Geography
  • Human Population
  • Information Systems
  • Military Organizations
  • National Security
  • Organizational Structure
  • Personnel Management
  • Police
  • Recreation
  • Social Media
  • Social Networks
  • Societies
  • Victims
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Political Violence and Terrorism Studies.
  • Systems Analysis and Design