Hector Berrellez: The CIA, the Cartels, and the Murder of Kiki Camarena
Borderland: Narcosis with Vincent 'Rocco' VargasShow Notes
On today’s episode, Vince sits down with Hector Berrellez, a former DEA agent and lead investigator on the 1985 murder of agent Kiki Camarena.
Berrellez breaks down his role in the case, efforts to secure key witnesses, and the investigative tactics used at the time. He also discusses allegations he uncovered, including claims involving the CIA, along with internal pushback and unresolved questions surrounding the case.
The conversation also touches on how cartel operations have evolved and Berrellez’s perspective on ongoing drug enforcement efforts. Borderland is an IRONCLAD Original
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:31) Taking Over the Kiki Camarena Case
(06:06) Discovering CIA Involvement
(08:45) The Real Reason Kiki Was Murdered
(10:35) Addressing Skeptics and "The Last Narc"
(14:08) Orders from Washington and the Cover-up
(17:06) High-Level Corruption and Ricky Ross
(23:51) Evolution of Cartels and Extermination Camps
(33:00) The Future of the Drug War and Fentanyl
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