Traffic

In Mexico, police officer Javier Rodriguez and his partner Manolo Sanchez successfully disrupt a drug transport operation. They apprehend the couriers, signaling the beginning of their involvement in tackling drug trafficking.

General Salazar, a powerful Mexican official, interrupts their operation and recruits Javier for a hidden agenda. Salazar aims to track down Francisco Flores, a notorious hitman for the Tijuana Cartel, which sets the stage for a larger conflict.

Under intense torture, Francisco Flores discloses the names of key members within the Obregon cartel. This revelation prompts a massive police and military offensive led by Javier and Salazar, marking a significant escalation in their anti-drug efforts.

As the investigation progresses, Javier realizes that Salazar's motives are not altruistic. Instead of a hero, Salazar is a pawn in the drugs industry, seeking to undermine one cartel to strengthen his own ties with a rival cartel for profit.

Manolo Sanchez attempts to expose Salazar’s real motivations by communicating with the DEA. Tragically, his efforts lead to his death, illustrating the grave risks faced by those who dare to confront corruption.

Disillusioned with the corruption in their ranks, Javier decides to cooperate with the DEA. He demands better electricity for his neighborhood as part of his plea, ensuring a brighter future for local children amidst the backdrop of crime.

Javier's collaboration ultimately leads to the exposure of Salazar's illicit operations. The aftermath sees Salazar arrested, but he dies in prison, leaving a complicated legacy behind him.

In a courageous public statement, Javier addresses the pervasive corruption within the police and military. His revelations aim to inspire change, reflecting a personal commitment to combat the systemic issues plaguing their institutions.

The film concludes with a hopeful image as Javier witnesses children playing baseball at night in their newly built stadium. This symbolizes the change and progress achieved through his efforts.

In Ohio, Robert Wakefield is appointed head of the President's Office of National Drug Control. His new role is fraught with challenges and foreshadows a turbulent journey through the complexities of the War on Drugs.

While Robert faces the formidable role of drug czar, his daughter Caroline succumbs to addiction, introduced to drugs by her boyfriend. This personal battle starkly contrasts his professional responsibilities, creating profound tension in the family.

After Caroline disappears and is reported to be in a troubling situation, Robert undertakes a desperate search through Cincinnati. The emotional toll becomes apparent as he grapples with the realities of her addiction.

Weeks of turmoil culminate at a press conference where Robert prepares to announce a new anti-drug plan. Overwhelmed by the implications of the war on drugs for families like his, he falters and steps away from the podium.

Following his departure from the press conference, Robert and his wife Barbara dedicate themselves to supporting Caroline. They choose to join Narcotics Anonymous, emphasizing their commitment to family healing amidst the chaos of addiction.

In San Diego, undercover agents Montel Gordon and Ray Castro execute a drug trafficking investigation. Their successful arrest of dealer Eduardo Ruiz becomes a critical moment in the ongoing attempt to dismantle the Obregon crime syndicate.