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Mexico Transfers 37 Cartel Suspects to US

Published 21 January 2026

Mexico City - Mexican authorities transferred 37 alleged members of drug cartels to the United States on Tuesday, marking the third such handover in the past year amid escalating pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to intensify efforts against cross-border smuggling networks.

The suspects, described by Mexican Security Minister Omar García Harfuch as high-impact criminals posing significant threats to public safety, were transported aboard seven aircraft operated by the Mexican Armed Forces. They were flown to several U.S. locations, including Washington, Houston, New York, Pennsylvania, San Antonio, and San Diego. This latest group brings the total number of individuals sent to the U.S. during the current administration to 92, according to Harfuch's statement on the social media platform X.

The transfers are part of bilateral cooperation aimed at addressing cartel activities, with Mexican officials emphasizing that the process adheres to the country's National Security Law. Harfuch noted that Mexico obtained assurances from the U.S. Justice Department that none of the suspects would face the death penalty if convicted, a key concern given Mexico's prohibition on capital...

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