Brutal
Los Zetas was initially the criminal mercenary army for Mexico's Gulf Cartel.
However, since the arrest of Osiel Cárdenas Guillen, as well as other events, the two entities are a combined trafficking force, with the Zetas now taking a more active role in drug trafficking.
Their two organizations now collectively refer to themselves as the "Company".
The group was founded by former Mexican Army elite soldiers and is now formed by ex-federal, state, and local police officers, as well as ex-Kaibiles from Guatemala, bringing a total force of over 4000 men.
Los Zetas are now led by Heriberto "El Lazca" Lazcano and are considered by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as probably being the most technologically advanced, sophisticated and violent paramilitary enforcement group in Mexico.
Los Zetas have expanded their operations to Italy with the 'Ndrangheta.