US takes custody of 26 alleged Mexican cartel members

The Justice Department said in a statement that the individuals are facing a range of federal and state criminal charges from around the country, including drug trafficking, kidnapping, murder, and money laundering.

“These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores -- under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country," said Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Bondi said the US is grateful to Mexico’s National Security team for their collaboration.

Under the administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican government has vowed to ramp up efforts to disrupt drug flows into the US, complying with demands from President Donald Trump to avoid tariffs threatened by his administration.