I think the alphabet guys there didn't have the support they needed, either from the US or Mexican government. At this point, prior paraquat spraying and weed interdiction and the like is going to do nothing. The cartels have to be taken down. Forget their product; get them.
Given how well armed and dangerous the cartels are, the only solution is a military one. It would be nice if the Mexican government could/would do it, but I'm afraid the corruption runs too deep. It is going to take a concerted effort by both the US and Mexico, and the support of the Mexican people. To hear the Mexican government talk about not wanting our help is a huge red flag. They have conceded defeat to the cartels at this point, and act like we want to occupy and rule their country. Pathetic. I guess the bribe money is too lucrative, because the US has no such objective.
The Colombian government and people wanted their country back, made sacrifices, and cooperated with us. While they still have some issues with police corruption, etc., they basically did get their country--and lives-back, with our help.
It can happen in Mexico, but it is going to be tougher because the cartels are fragmented and really dangerous. I really hope it can get fixed because Mexico is such an amazing country.