On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, the Mexican government handed over 26 alleged drug traffickers to the United States, including high-profile figures such as Abigael “El Cuini” González Valencia of the CJNG; Servando “La Tuta” Gómez Martínez of Los Caballeros Templarios; and Juan Carlos “El Chavo Félix” Gastélum, son-in-law of “El Mayo” Zambada.
It is a new round of extraditions following a similar operation in February, when Mexico handed over 29 other drug traffickers, including the infamous Rafael Caro Quintero.
Why is this transfer relevant?
The U.S. government, through the Department of Justice, formally requested these surrenders and offered assurances that it would not seek the death penalty against those extradited.
The operation demonstrates increased bilateral coordination in the fight against transnational drug trafficking networks.
Especially against organizations previously labeled as terrorists by the U.S. administration (such as the CJNG or the Sinaloa Cartel).
This is a new round of extraditions following a similar operation in February
QuéOnnda.com
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum endorsed the operation as a sovereign action aimed at strengthening national security.
In his opinion, this collaboration makes it possible to more effectively confront the drug trafficking groups that fuel violence and the production of fentanyl, which is responsible for thousands of overdose deaths in the United States.
Key players and legal positions
Also among those extradited is Roberto Salazar, wanted for the murder of a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy in 2008.
As well as Abdul Karim Conteh, originally from Sierra Leone, accused of migrant smuggling.
Most face federal and state charges in the U.S., including drug trafficking, kidnapping, human trafficking, money laundering and illegal use of weapons.
Sentences can reach life imprisonment, except for Conteh, who faces a maximum of 45 years behind bars.
This operation marks a turning point in U.S.-Mexico security cooperation.
Under a narrative of collaboration in the face of diplomatic pressures and economic threats.
It also reinforces the message that the U.S. justice system will pursue criminal operators and drug traffickers even beyond its borders.
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