Ep 21. Drug War Zone

The National Geographic Documentaries season 2009 episode 21, titled "Drug War Zone," takes viewers on a harrowing journey through the heart of the Mexican drug trafficking world. The documentary explores the complex and dangerous world of Mexican drug cartels and the toll their brutal tactics are taking on the country's citizens.

The episode focuses on the town of Juarez, located on the Texas-Mexico border. Juarez is one of the most violent places in the world, with drug-related violence ravaging the city and leaving citizens in constant fear. In the last decade, over 40,000 people have been killed in the Mexican drug war, with many of the deaths occurring in Juarez.

The film crew follows the Juarez police department and the Mexican military as they try to keep the city safe and combat the drug cartels. The episode features interviews with members of the police and military, as well as residents of Juarez who have been impacted by the violence. One man recounts how his entire family was killed in a cartel-related shooting, while another woman describes how she lives in constant fear of being caught in the crossfire.

The documentary also looks at the root causes of the drug war, including poverty and corruption. Many of the cartels offer jobs and money to impoverished citizens as a means of recruiting new members. The episode explores the difficult decisions facing those who live in poverty in Juarez and must choose between joining the cartels or risking their lives in poverty.

While the episode is often difficult to watch due to the graphic footage of violence and death, it does not shy away from the realities of the drug war in Mexico. The film crew captures footage of drugs and weapons being seized by police, as well as patrols through the city's most dangerous neighborhoods.

In addition to exploring the drug war in Juarez, the episode also delves into the impact the violence is having on American citizens. With Juarez located just across the border from Texas, American citizens are often caught up in the violence. The episode features interviews with Americans who have lost loved ones in the drug war or who have been injured by stray bullets.

Overall, the National Geographic Documentaries episode "Drug War Zone" offers a powerful and insightful look into the Mexican drug war. By exploring the complex issues at the heart of the conflict, the episode sheds light on the toll the drug war is taking on Mexico and its citizens. Viewers who are interested in global politics, human rights issues, or true crime documentaries will find this episode to be both informative and thought-provoking.