United States: Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia, 76, was arraigned in federal court in Brooklyn on September 18 on 17 serious charges, including drug trafficking, firearms offenses, and money laundering. This indictment connects him to his long-time role as a leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, known for its involvement in the fentanyl crisis and violent crime.
Zambada was arrested in New Mexico on July 25 and is being held in custody until his trial. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated that Zambada ran a multi-billion-dollar operation that flooded U.S. communities with dangerous drugs like fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine. He allegedly used hitmen to carry out kidnappings and murders to protect his drug routes.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the U.S. government’s commitment to dismantling drug trafficking operations, while Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco called Zambada’s arraignment a crucial step against a major criminal organization.
Zambada, who has avoided capture for decades, faces a minimum sentence of life in prison if found guilty. He is accused of expanding the Sinaloa Cartel’s fentanyl distribution since 2012 and ordering violent attacks against rivals.
This case is part of a larger effort to take down top drug trafficking organizations. All defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty.
