U.S. security agencies carried out an infiltration of the Sinaloa Cartel, resulting in a successful drug seizure and the arrest of 16 members of this criminal group. Among those arrested are six high-ranking members, including Heriberto Salazar Amaya, the leader of the cell.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi described the operation as a historic victory, as 3 million fentanyl pills, 35 kilos of methamphetamine, 4.5 kilos of heroin, 7.5 kilos of cocaine, among other drugs, were seized, in addition to weapons, vehicles, and cash. In a press conference, Bondi emphasized that this action represents a significant blow to the Sinaloa Cartel and protects Americans from the scourge of fentanyl.
The joint operation conducted in five states in the United States allowed not only for drug seizures and arrests but also for identifying cartel members involved in drug trafficking. Ten U.S. citizens and six Mexicans who were illegally residing in the United States were detained, including Salazar Amaya, deported twice and captured in Salem, Oregon.
Officials emphasized that the seizure of fentanyl pills had a direct impact on preventing criminal acts and saved lives in the United States. Ryan Ellison, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico, pointed out that this action sends a clear message that those involved in drug trafficking will be brought to justice.
Attorney General Bondi highlighted the importance of teamwork among local, state, and federal authorities in the United States to dismantle one of the largest and most dangerous criminal organizations in the country. For his part, Robert J. Murphy, acting administrator of the DEA, mentioned that the operation was carried out after intense investigations and infiltration by agencies into the Sinaloa Cartel for six months.
In summary, this blow to organized crime represents a significant step in the fight against drug trafficking and fentanyl, demonstrating the commitment of U.S. authorities to combat drug trafficking and protect the population.
