The U.S. Department of Justice announced a $25 million reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Juan Carlos Valencia González, also known as "Pelón," who is believed to lead the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This reward is an increase from a previous $5 million offer and is part of a broader effort to target the cartel. The announcement coincided with the unsealing of indictments against five other high-ranking CJNG members on federal charges related to drug trafficking, including fentanyl and cocaine.
Valencia González, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Mexico, is the stepson of former CJNG leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, who was reportedly killed in a military operation in February. The State Department aims to weaken the cartel's leadership, offering a total of $100 million in rewards for six other CJNG leaders and implementing visa restrictions for cartel associates.
At a news conference, Drug Enforcement Administration Director Terry Cole emphasized that individuals protecting cartels would not be shielded by political influence. He stated that corruption enabling cartel activities would be pursued as part of their criminal operations. Cole's remarks follow recent indictments of Mexican officials accused of aiding the Sinaloa Cartel in exchange for bribes.
The CJNG is classified as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. and operates in 21 of Mexico's 32 states, engaging in various criminal activities, including drug smuggling and financial fraud. The announcement follows sanctions imposed on over 50 individuals and entities connected to the cartel, which froze assets and blocked financial transactions. The U.S. administration has also urged Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to take stronger action against cartels, with discussions of potential military action against these groups.