Executive Summary
- Spanish police arrested 20 people, dismantling the European operations of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
- The joint operation with the U.S. DEA and Dutch authorities seized 1.8 tons of cocaine, cash, weapons, and cryptocurrency.
- Among those arrested were two high-priority DEA targets and suspected members of the Italian Camorra mafia.
- The CJNG is designated a “foreign terrorist organization” by the U.S. and is led by the fugitive “El Mencho.”
Spanish authorities announced Tuesday the arrest of 20 individuals and the dismantling of a major European hub for Mexico’s powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The operation, conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Dutch authorities, targeted the cartel’s network for smuggling cocaine and methamphetamine into Europe.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation began earlier this year after police discovered large quantities of narcotics concealed within heavy industrial machinery. According to a statement from Spanish police, the CJNG used this method to transport drugs from South America to storage facilities near Madrid for subsequent distribution across the continent. The joint operation resulted in the seizure of 1.8 tons of cocaine, cash, cryptocurrency, weapons, and vehicles.
Among those detained are two individuals described as “priority targets” by the DEA. The arrests also included suspected members of the Italian Camorra mafia, who were allegedly responsible for transporting the drugs to other European nations. The operation underscores Spain’s position as a primary entry point for narcotics into Europe, attracting significant international criminal activity.
International Context and Cartel Background
The DEA’s involvement was crucial, providing key intelligence that facilitated the successful operation. The U.S. government has actively targeted the CJNG, which the administration under President Donald Trump previously designated a “foreign terrorist organization.” The group is identified as a primary trafficker of fentanyl into the United States.
The CJNG is led by Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” for whom the U.S. has offered a $15 million reward. This series of arrests represents a significant blow to the cartel’s logistical and operational capabilities in Europe. It is important to note that all individuals arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.