Mexico hands over 29 Cartel figures to U.S. amid tariff threats

Mexico has extradited 29 cartel figures to the United States in a surprise move, marking its largest handover of criminals in years. The decision follows threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Mexican goods starting March 4.

Among those extradited is Rafael Caro Quintero, the 72-year-old co-founder of the Guadalajara Cartel, accused of involvement in the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. Caro Quintero, who had denied the allegations, was sent to New York, where he faces drug-trafficking charges.

Other high-profile figures include Antonio Oseguera Cervantes, brother of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, and José Ángel "El Guerito" Canobbio, a senior figure in the Sinaloa Cartel. The accused traffickers were flown to multiple U.S. cities, including Phoenix, Chicago, and Houston.

The extraditions coincide with high-stakes trade negotiations in Washington, where Mexican officials are attempting to avert Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican exports. A U.S. source called the move a sign of “good faith” from Mexico, though it remains unclear whether formal legal procedures were followed.

Mexican authorities have yet to release details beyond calling the operation a "transfer."

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