Key facts
- The U.S. government is offering a $25 million reward for information leading to the capture of Juan Carlos González.
- González is a U.S. citizen reportedly leading Mexico's Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
- The reward was increased from $5 million.
- New indictments have been unsealed against five other high-ranking CJNG leaders.
- The U.S. previously imposed sanctions on 50 individuals and companies linked to the cartel, including González.
The U.S. government has significantly increased pressure on Mexico's most powerful cartel by offering a $25 million reward for information leading to the capture of Juan Carlos González, a U.S. citizen identified as its current leader. This move escalates previous efforts, including a $5 million reward and sanctions against 50 individuals and companies linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that these actions are aimed at crippling the cartel's leadership and combating the flow of deadly narcotics into the United States. The CJNG is known for its involvement in drug smuggling and other illicit activities, and has been designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S.
This intensified pressure follows the February killing of former CJNG leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” with U.S. intelligence support. New indictments have also been unsealed against five other high-ranking cartel figures, including Oseguera Cervantes's former son-in-law and godson.
The Trump administration had previously offered substantial rewards and visa restrictions targeting CJNG leaders, and President Donald Trump had urged Mexico to intensify its crackdown on cartels. The CJNG has a widespread presence across Mexico and operations extending into the United States.