Mexico Extradites 29 High-Profile Cartel Figures to the U.S.

The extradition includes notorious drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero and coincides with trade and security negotiations between Mexico and the Trump administration.

Mexico transferred 29 individuals, including drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero and Los Zetas leaders Omar and Miguel Treviño Morales, to U.S. custody at the request of the U.S. government.
The extraditions come as Mexico negotiates with the Trump administration to delay a 25% tariff on Mexican imports, which could significantly impact both economies.
Caro Quintero, a former Guadalajara cartel leader and FBI Most Wanted fugitive, was convicted for the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique 'Kiki' Camarena and resumed drug trafficking after his 2013 release until his 2022 arrest.
The U.S. has designated several Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, increasing diplomatic pressure on Mexico to address drug trafficking and fentanyl smuggling.
Concerns have been raised about potential violent retaliation from cartels, particularly in regions like Nuevo Laredo, following the extradition of key cartel figures.

U.S. Department of Justice