China's Cartels, Crypto, and Border Collapse | Ep. 252 | Pt. 2

Mike Drop

Mike Ritland

Society & Culture, Documentary, Politics, News

4.9 • 6.3K Ratings

🗓️ 13 August 2025

⏱️ 84 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

🧾️ Download transcript

Summary

In the gripping second part of this episode of the Mike Drop Podcast, guest John Nores dives deeper into the escalating issues at the U.S. borders, focusing on the alarming rise of Chinese nationals crossing illegally and their potential ties to organized crime and terrorism. The discussion uncovers the calculated destruction of identification documents by these operatives, making it nearly impossible to trace their identities, and explores the sophisticated transportation networks facilitating their entry. We examine the collusion between Chinese organized crime and Mexican cartels, highlighting their roles in fentanyl production, human trafficking, and the operation of illegal grow sites. The conversation also addresses the vulnerabilities of the northern border, particularly in Montana, where limited resources and vast terrain create opportunities for smuggling and other illicit activities. The episode reflects on the positive shifts under the new administration, with improved communication between federal agencies and law enforcement, and a renewed focus on combating cartels. We also explore the challenges faced during California's sanctuary state policies under Governor Newsom, which restricted information sharing and media outreach about cartel activities. The discussion touches on the role of cryptocurrency in potential money laundering schemes and its geopolitical implications, as well as the need for a more streamlined immigration process that distinguishes between non-criminal immigrants and dangerous offenders. Beyond the serious topics, the episode lightens up with stories of community engagement, including John Nores' involvement in a Montana-based rock band, Area 56, which has provided a joyful outlet amidst the intensity of his work. From adapting military tactics for law enforcement to tracking fugitives like a former Army Ranger in rural areas, this episode is packed with insights into the evolving challenges of border security, environmental protection, and public safety. Join us for a candid and unifying conversation that bridges critical issues with moments of hope and resilience on the Mike Drop Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcript

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0:00.0	I've ruled out uni because I want to live at home.
0:02.0	I've ruled out uni because I want to earn money.
0:05.0	I've ruled out uni because of my grades.
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0:23.6	future with the degree you didn't think was possible. The Open University. The future is open.
0:29.6	You mentioned operatives. Is it just people who are setting up shop to manufacture narcotics or is there an operative component from a
0:40.2	you know a terrorism or more enough even more nefarious element to that because I remember seeing
0:47.6	a huge shift you know early on in the administration, it was primarily Mexican and South American
0:55.8	nationalists coming across the border.
1:00.1	And then you started seeing, like, alarmingly high numbers of specifically Chinese, but,
1:06.6	you know, people from all over the world, but a ton of Chinese nationalists.
1:10.4	And these were guys that, you know, were fighting age males in decent shape, clean cut, they just looked
1:16.4	different.
1:17.4	I mean, they sure as fuck didn't look like refugees.
1:19.1	Right.
1:20.1	What have you seen as far as that impact?
1:24.2	Are those guys, in your opinion, fueling and starting up these grow sites, or is there
1:30.4	more to it than that?
1:31.4	No, they're without a doubt, without a doubt.
1:34.3	And you brought up a good point that's in my little notes to talk about is, and again,
	...

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