DEA Operations Disrupt Jalisco Cartel, Leading to Significant Seizures and Arrests

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced the outcomes of a concentrated, five-day enforcement surge targeting the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), identified as a significant threat to public safety and national security. These operations, conducted between September 22 and September 26, 2025, involved 23 domestic DEA field divisions and seven international regions, resulting in widespread arrests and substantial seizures of illicit substances and assets.

CJNG, designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, is known for its extensive involvement in trafficking dangerous drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin into the United States. These substances fuel addiction, overdose deaths, and violence across American communities. The cartel operates globally, with a network of tens of thousands of members and facilitators in numerous countries, engaging in the production, manufacturing, and distribution of synthetic drugs, as well as perpetuating associated violence and corruption.

The enforcement surge yielded 670 arrests. In terms of drug seizures, authorities confiscated 92.4 kilograms of fentanyl powder, over 1.1 million counterfeit pills, 6,062 kilograms of methamphetamine, 22,842 kilograms of cocaine, and 33 kilograms of heroin. Financial gains from these operations were also significant, with the seizure of $18,644,105 in currency and $29,694,429 in assets. Additionally, 244 firearms were confiscated during the enforcement actions.

The DEA’s strategy involves dismantling CJNG’s command, control, and distribution networks. The agency continues its pursuit of CJNG co-founder and leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” who remains one of the DEA’s most wanted fugitives. A reward of up to $15 million is offered for information leading to his capture. These efforts are part of a broader, government-wide initiative to combat transnational criminal organizations and safeguard U.S. communities. Through collaboration with the Homeland Security Task Force and other federal partners, the DEA aims to disrupt and defeat designated terrorist organizations and transnational organized crime.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Drug Enforcement Administration

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