Story By: Juan Mayes, Sub-Editor: Joana Mihajlovska, Agency:  Newsflash

This footage shows a lavish party that was reportedly organised by family members of jailed drug lord El Chapo involving over 1,000 guests and raffled cars during COVID-19 restrictions.

The plush event was raided by members of the National Guard and state police in the area of San Diego in the town of El Dorado located in the municipality of Culiacan in the Mexican state of Sinaloa.

According to reports, the party started in the afternoon of 15th December. However, police broke the party up in the early hours of the following day.

The video shows the moment several new vehicles with large bows on top are lined up next to a stage where several people can be seen preparing equipment.

At one point the cameraperson shows a large area with a sea of round tables and chairs are spread out as someone is heard testing the microphone.

The footage cuts to show people walking in a circle holding a package before a large stage with musicians is seen next to a tower of stacked boxes.

According to local testimonies, some of the raffled products had a tag with the initials ‘JGL’ on them apparently referring to notorious drug lord Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman Loera and local media said his family members organised the plush event.

The authorities became aware of the celebration through social media and believe over 1,000 people attended it. The event included several live performances, food, and drinks.

There were seven 2021 model vehicles recently bought from a dealership that were being given away as well as domestic appliances.

Sinaloa security minister Cristobal Castaneda said the authorities seized the cars because they did not have registered licence plates, but did not carry out any arrests.

The minister also asked residents to keep away from such activities due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.

There have been no reports as to why the party was staged.

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