In a sweeping international law enforcement operation, Mexico has extradited 29 high-profile alleged criminals to the United States. Among those extradited are Rafael Caro Quintero, known as the "narco of narcos," and several key figures from notorious drug cartels. This move marks a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking networks that have long plagued both countries.
Rafael Caro Quintero, who once dominated the drug trade landscape, is now in US custody after being extradited from Mexico. Caro Quintero had previously spent 28 years in a Mexican prison for his involvement in the murder of a DEA agent. Although he was released in 2013 on a legal technicality, the Mexican Supreme Court later overturned that decision. In July 2022, the Mexican Navy recaptured him, paving the way for his extradition.
“Caro Quintero, a cartel kingpin who unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the United States and Mexico, has spent four decades atop DEA’s most wanted fugitives list, and today we can proudly say he has arrived in the United States where justice will be served,” – DEA Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz
Also among the extradited are figures linked to the Gulf Cartel. Cruz, known by his alias "El Vaquero," was accused of drug trafficking as a regional leader within this infamous organization. The Gulf Cartel has a notorious reputation, particularly following allegations of kidnapping four American tourists in Tamaulipas in 2023, which resulted in the death of two individuals.
Cruz's sister also found herself entangled in legal troubles after pleading guilty in a federal court. She admitted to facilitating his escape by paying $2,500 to arrange for a getaway vehicle. Her actions underscore the extent of familial involvement often seen within organized crime networks.
Miguel Treviño Morales, allegedly the founder of the Cartel del Noreste, is another significant figure among those extradited. The US now considers this cartel a terrorist group due to its violent activities and influence across regions.
Elsewhere, the extradition list included Clark, the sole Canadian citizen among those extradited. Clark is accused of leading a vast drug-smuggling operation alongside another Canadian, Ryan Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder who remains at large in Mexico. Their operation highlights the international reach of drug trafficking activities.
The Los Ciclones group in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, also faces setbacks with the extradition of Garcia, accused of drug trafficking and money laundering as its leader. His capture deals a critical blow to the group's operations in the area.
The list of extradited individuals further includes Marin-Sotelo, who had escaped from a Virginia jail in May 2023. Marin-Sotelo and his brother were charged with the murder of a Wake County, NC sheriff's deputy in August 2022. His return to US custody closes a chapter on his fugitive status and brings him to face justice.
In addition to these figures, José Ángel Canobbio Inzunza, known as “El Güerito” or “El 90,” is another key player now under US jurisdiction. His presence among those extradited underscores the US's commitment to dismantling major drug trafficking networks.
The Sinaloa Cartel, long recognized for its extensive criminal activities across borders, is now officially designated as a terrorist organization by the US. This designation reflects the heightened threat level posed by such groups and underscores ongoing efforts to curb their influence.
“Z-40” and “Z-42” – (referring to Miguel and Omar Treviño Morales)
These extraditions reflect comprehensive cooperation between US and Mexican authorities in addressing transnational crime. By targeting leaders within these organizations, law enforcement agencies aim to disrupt operations and weaken cartel structures that thrive on violence and intimidation.
