In an unprecedented move, 17 relatives of notorious cartel leader Ovidio Guzman Lopez have entered the United States, according to Mexico’s security chief. This development follows a controversial agreement between Guzman Lopez—whose father, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, is serving a life sentence in the U.S.—and the Trump administration.
Mexican Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch confirmed the crossing, which occurred last week, revealing that family members arrived at the border from Tijuana with their luggage, ready to meet U.S. officials. This action raises eyebrows, especially as Guzman Lopez was extradited to the U.S. in 2023 after being captured by Mexican authorities.
Speculation has surfaced that Guzman Lopez may be negotiating a plea deal to evade multiple drug trafficking charges. García Harfuch indicated that the family’s movement was likely part of a larger agreement involving cooperation with U.S. authorities, suggesting a potential exchange of information between Guzman Lopez and the Department of Justice.
As the U.S. ramps up its crackdown on cartel activity, it has unveiled new indictments against cartel leaders, charging them with “narcoterrorism” for the first time since declaring various drug trafficking organizations as foreign terrorist groups. U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon issued a stark warning to the Sinaloa Cartel, insisting that their reign of terror is coming to an end.
The Guzman family’s entry into the U.S. adds a new layer of intrigue to the ongoing battle against drug cartels, with implications that could ripple through the criminal underworld. The situation is evolving, and the stakes are higher than ever as the U.S. intensifies its efforts to dismantle these powerful criminal organizations.
