Chihuahua Governor Maru Campos has firmly denied that she authorized the presence of US agents, specifically from the CIA, in a recent law enforcement operation targeting a narco-lab in the state. “I never managed their presence,” Campos stated to the press, pushing back against rumors and speculation about her role.

Campos clarified that her relationship with the US government is limited to direct communication with the US Consulate in Ciudad Juárez, not with higher-level authorities, such as the US Ambassador to Mexico. “It may sound odd, but despite being the governor of the state with the country’s largest border—Ciudad Juárez and El Paso—my communication is direct with the US Consul in Juárez. My communication with the US Ambassador in Mexico is nonexistent. I have official letters requesting meetings with the ambassador, but so far, I’ve received no answer. I understand he may be busy. So how would I be able to authorize or plan the presence of American agents if I don’t have that relationship?” she emphasized.

The governor also questioned Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum’s claim of ignorance regarding the agents’ presence. Campos pointed out that unlike her, Sheinbaum has direct authority over national agencies such as the National Institute of Migration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs—both of which play crucial roles in accrediting, or denying accreditation to, foreign agents. “It’s inconceivable for her to say she didn’t know anything, when she’s the one who actually holds the power to authorize or deny the presence of US agents,” Campos remarked.

### Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into who exactly authorized the CIA agents’ participation in the Chihuahua operation is still underway. State investigative agents who were part of the operation have already been interviewed, and the former head of Strategic Operations at the State Prosecutor’s Office has also provided statements. Campos made it clear she welcomes the involvement of the Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR), stating, “We have nothing to hide.”

She added: “I’m here to open the doors and provide any information I have—so is the state government and the prosecutor’s office. I’m also here to reassure the people of Chihuahua that they are not alone, and that we will continue this fight against insecurity together.”

### Miscommunication with Mexico’s President

Campos confirmed that she was not at Government Palace when President Sheinbaum tried to contact her about the operation and the presence of CIA agents. “I was attending off-site meetings. Later, I tried to return the call and even sought to meet with the president, but there was no response,” she said, highlighting a communication gap at a critical moment.

For the thousands of Mexican migrants watching politics at home, and for immigrants navigating Mexico’s evolving security landscape, this episode underscores the complex—and sometimes fractured—lines of authority and communication between federal and state governments, as well as with international partners. It’s a reminder that border states like Chihuahua operate in a unique diplomatic and security context, often having to negotiate relationships and protocols that aren’t always clear-cut.