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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FBI Press Release
Date: February 28, 2025
Time: 9:13 AM EST
Attorney General Pamela Bondi Announces 29 Wanted Defendants From Mexico Taken Into U.S. Custody
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Attorney General Pamela Bondi today announced that 29 individuals wanted on a range of federal charges, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and conspiracy to commit murder, have been successfully apprehended in Mexico and extradited to the United States. The culmination of a multi-year, multi-agency operation, this coordinated effort signifies a major victory in the ongoing fight against transnational crime.
“This is a clear message to criminals operating across our borders: you cannot evade justice,” stated Attorney General Bondi at a press conference held at the Department of Justice headquarters. “The United States will work tirelessly with our international partners to bring those who threaten our communities to account. Today’s announcement is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the FBI, DEA, and our Mexican counterparts.”
The operation, codenamed “Operation Puente Seguro” (Safe Bridge), was a collaborative effort involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Marshals Service, and various Mexican law enforcement agencies, including the Fiscalía General de la República (FGR). The initiative focused on dismantling criminal networks operating along the U.S.-Mexico border, responsible for a significant portion of the illicit drug trade and related violence.
Among the defendants taken into custody are:
- Ricardo “El Lobo” Vargas: Alleged leader of the Vargas drug trafficking organization, responsible for smuggling significant quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine into the United States. Vargas is also wanted in connection with multiple murders in both the U.S. and Mexico.
- Isabela “La Reina” Cortez: Accused of managing the financial operations of a major cartel, laundering millions of dollars through shell corporations and real estate investments.
- Javier “El Silencioso” Mendoza: A known enforcer and hitman, believed to be responsible for numerous acts of violence on behalf of the Vargas organization.
The 29 individuals are being held in various federal detention centers across the United States and are expected to face charges in multiple jurisdictions, including California, Texas, Arizona, and Florida. The indictments allege a wide range of criminal activities, including:
- Drug Trafficking: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
- Money Laundering: Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments and engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity.
- Conspiracy to Commit Murder: Conspiracy to kill and cause the death of individuals in furtherance of a drug trafficking enterprise.
- Firearms Offenses: Possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking activities.
FBI Director Christopher Wray echoed Attorney General Bondi’s sentiments, stating, “The FBI is committed to working alongside our international partners to dismantle these criminal organizations and protect our communities from the devastating effects of drug trafficking and violence. This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating transnational crime.”
The extradition process was facilitated by the long-standing extradition treaty between the United States and Mexico. U.S. authorities worked closely with Mexican officials to ensure the safe and lawful transfer of the defendants.
The Attorney General’s office emphasized that this is an ongoing effort and that further arrests and indictments are expected as the investigation continues. They also highlighted the importance of public cooperation in providing information that can assist law enforcement in disrupting criminal activity.
Members of the public with information related to these cases or other potential criminal activity are encouraged to contact their local FBI field office or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.
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Contact:
FBI National Press Office
(202) 324-3000
Attorney General Pamela Bondi Announces 29 Wanted Defendants From Mexico Taken Into U.S. Custody
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FBI a new article on 2025-02-28 09:13 titled “Attorney General Pamela Bondi Announces 29 Wanted Defendants From Mexico Taken Into U.S. Custody”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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