Mexico's CJNG cartel: US offers reward of millions for drug lords

The U.S. government has announced a multi-million-dollar reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of eight high-ranking members of Mexico’s notorious Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG). The total reward amount exceeds $100 million (approximately €86.6 million), according to a statement issued by the U.S. Department of State. This marks one of the largest financial incentives ever offered by the United States against a drug cartel. The move comes amid heightened tensions in northern Mexico, where violence linked to the CJNG has persisted despite ongoing efforts by authorities to dismantle the organization. The reward includes a top prize of $25 million for information leading to the capture of Juan Carlos Valencia González, known as “Pelón,” who is identified as the current leader of the cartel. Valencia, a dual citizen of Mexico and the United States, was born in California and is believed to have close ties to the former leadership of the CJNG. The decision follows the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, previously the head of the CJNG and known by his nickname “El Mencho.” He was killed during a military operation in February 2026. His assassination triggered a wave of retaliatory violence across several Mexican states, resulting in the deaths of at least 74 individuals. The CJNG, which operates primarily in western Mexico, is widely regarded as one of the most violent and powerful drug trafficking organizations in the country. In addition to the monetary rewards, the U.S. government has imposed visa restrictions on 65 individuals associated with the CJNG, including family members and business partners. These measures aim to limit the movement of key figures within the cartel and disrupt its operations. The U.S. Department of State described the initiative as a “historic and determined action” against what it calls one of the most dangerous drug-related terrorist organizations in the world. The CJNG, originally based in the state of Jalisco, has expanded its influence into other regions of Mexico and beyond, engaging in drug trafficking, extortion, and armed conflict with rival cartels and law enforcement agencies. Its activities have contributed significantly to instability in parts of central and western Mexico, prompting increased collaboration between Mexican and American authorities. The reward program underscores the U.S. government’s commitment to combating transnational organized crime. It reflects broader efforts to target high-profile criminals through financial incentives, a strategy that has been used successfully against other drug cartels in recent years. The announcement was made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing the growing threat posed by such groups. Mexican officials have expressed support for the U.S. initiative, acknowledging the need for stronger cross-border coordination to combat the CJNG. However, local law enforcement continues to face challenges due to limited resources and the cartel’s extensive network of informants and allies. The situation remains volatile, with reports of continued violence and criminal activity in areas under the cartel’s control. As the hunt for key CJNG members intensifies, the U.S. and Mexican governments are likely to continue their joint efforts to weaken the organization. The success of this campaign will depend on the ability of intelligence services and law enforcement agencies to gather reliable information and execute targeted operations. The coming months will be critical in determining whether these measures lead to meaningful progress in dismantling the CJNG.