US Accuses Sinaloa Cartel of Narco-Terrorism in Unprecedented Move

The United States Department of Justice has made a landmark move by formally accusing the Sinaloa Cartel of narco-terrorism, a first in the history of prosecuting Mexican cartels. This unprecedented action targets seven leaders of the Beltrán Leyva faction, a powerful arm of the Sinaloa Cartel. The charges, announced in a press conference, include not only drug trafficking and money laundering, but also the serious crime of narco-terrorism. Assistant Attorney General Victor Cuen highlighted the significance of this action, stating, "We will pursue these leaders until they face justice." The potential penalties are severe, including life imprisonment and substantial fines. The accused include high-ranking figures like Pedro Inzunza Noriega ("Sagitario") and his son, Pedro Inzunza Coronel ("El Pichón"), both key figures in the Beltrán Leyva organization. This case underscores the US government's commitment to combating the flow of illicit drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the United States. The severity of the charges reflects the growing concern over the cartel's activities and their potential threat to national security. The ongoing investigation is expected to lead to further indictments, signaling a determined effort to dismantle the Sinaloa Cartel's operations.