La Merma Del Traficante
Banda Lagunera
The Corruption Behind the Drug Trade: A Tale of Deception and Greed
Banda Lagunera's song "La Merma Del Traficante" delves into the dark and intricate world of drug trafficking and corruption within law enforcement. The narrative begins with a commander reporting only fifteen out of twenty kilos of cocaine to his superior, highlighting the initial act of deception. This sets the stage for a series of corrupt actions as the drugs make their way through the system, with each step involving further manipulation and theft.
The song paints a vivid picture of how corruption permeates every level of the process. The lieutenant, tasked with sending the drugs to the ministry, only delivers ten kilos, while the official report states that six kilos will be sent out at dawn. This discrepancy continues as Paredes, the truck driver, is arrested and brought to the reclusorio (prison) with only three kilos in his possession. By the time the judge requests evidence, only an ounce remains, leading to Paredes' release due to insufficient proof.
The song concludes with a reflection on how such corruption has made many commanders wealthy, thanks to the "merma" (shortfall) of the trafficker. Paredes, grateful for his release, donates the next shipment to the corrupt officials, perpetuating the cycle of deceit and greed. Through its storytelling, "La Merma Del Traficante" sheds light on the systemic corruption that enables the drug trade to thrive, offering a critical perspective on the interplay between law enforcement and criminal activities.