In a major sting operation, two top Sinaloa cartel leaders, Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada and Ovidio Guzmán López, have been arrested and extradited to the United States, where they now join notorious drug kingpin Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán in custody.
In a significant victory for the United States, two high-ranking members of the notorious Sinaloa cartel have been extradited to face charges in American courts. Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, the cartel's co-leader, and Ovidio Guzmán López, the son of imprisoned cartel boss Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, were apprehended in a coordinated operation by Mexican and U.S. authorities.
El Mayo, considered one of the most powerful drug traffickers in Mexico, has long eluded capture. His extradition marks a major breakthrough in the fight against organized crime. El Chapo Jr., previously arrested in 2019 but released after riots erupted in Culiacán, is also facing charges related to drug trafficking and money laundering.
Drug Lord 'El Mayo' Extradited to US, Joining 'El Chapo' in Custody
The operation has been hailed as a "tremendous victory" for the United States by former DEA Chief of Operations Ray Donovan. "This is a significant step in dismantling the Sinaloa cartel and bringing its leaders to justice," he said.
Meanwhile, an investigation is underway following the tragic deaths of two Arizona women who were shot to death in an overturned vehicle on a dangerous stretch of highway in northern Mexico. The victims, identified as 72-year-old Mary Murray and 82-year-old Mary Rodriguez, were dual citizens of the U.S. and Mexico.
Drug Lord 'El Mayo' Extradited to US, Joining 'El Chapo' in Custody
Authorities discovered a stolen Ford F-150 and an AK-47 rifle near the scene, believed to be linked to the murders. Mexican security forces have launched an operation to apprehend the responsible individuals.
The Sonoyta-Caborca highway, where the incident occurred, is known for its high levels of violence and migrant trafficking. In recent years, several shootings have targeted American citizens traveling in the area.
Drug Lord 'El Mayo' Extradited to US, Joining 'El Chapo' in Custody
Despite the arrests of El Mayo and El Chapo Jr., violence continues to plague Sonora, a state once controlled by Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán. Three rival cartels are engaged in a bloody turf war, contributing to the state's high murder rate.
The Sonoran government has launched a security operation to crack down on criminal activity, but the violence has yet to abate. U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution when traveling in the area.
Drug Lord 'El Mayo' Extradited to US, Joining 'El Chapo' in Custody
Mexican prosecutors are considering treason charges against El Mayo, who has been accused of financial dealings with government officials. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment or execution.
El Mayo's extradition has sparked protests among some in Mexico, who view his arrest as a violation of the country's sovereignty. However, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has defended the extradition, stating that it is necessary to combat organized crime and protect the interests of the Mexican people.
