So he could leave and re-enter the prison when his business demanded it. I read that he continued to run his business's while locked up. Also he could smuggle women into his cell and criminal associates for face-to-face conferences. If he had the ability to come and go his occasional appearances in the free world might forestall rivals from trying to steal his empire. Of course this would have to be at the behest of top officials.
But you're right—the simplest explanation is usually correct.
I gather I don’t understand your theory of theatre. If the whole thing is theatre, then the Mexican authorities have him locked up tight somewhere else because they fear what h could testify about their corruption, right?
Then why would they let him come&go as he pleased?
Occham’s Theory Must Be Obeyed. I’m thinking that might make a good tagline.