Mexico Sends 37 Criminal Operators to the U.S.: What We Know

Web Editor

January 20, 2026

a group of military men standing in front of a building with a train on top of it and a truck behind

Background on Omar García Harfuch and His Role

Omar García Harfuch serves as the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection in Mexico. His role is crucial in coordinating national security efforts and fostering international cooperation. Given his position, Harfuch’s announcements carry significant weight and influence in Mexico’s security policies.

The Transfer of Criminal Operators

On Tuesday, the Mexican federal government transported 37 high-risk criminal operatives to the United States under bilateral cooperation agreements. This move aims to mitigate ongoing violence generated by these individuals from within Mexico’s borders.

Details of the Transfer

  • The transfer involved seven military aircraft transporting the 37 criminal operators to Washington, Houston, New York, Pennsylvania, San Antonio, and San Diego.
  • The U.S. Department of Justice requested this transfer, ensuring that the death penalty would not be sought against these individuals.
  • This operation is part of a broader strategy by the Mexican federal government to collaborate internationally on security matters.

Impact and Significance

Under the current administration, a total of 92 high-impact criminals have been transferred to the U.S. as part of this security and international cooperation strategy.

Harfuch’s Emphasis on the Mission

Harfuch stressed that the primary objective is to prevent these violence-generating individuals from continuing their criminal activities within Mexico.

Contextualizing the Announcement

This announcement comes shortly after Mexico City’s mayor, Claudia Sheinbaum, held discussions on security with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Omar García Harfuch? He is the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection in Mexico, responsible for overseeing national security efforts and fostering international cooperation.
  • How many criminal operators were transferred? Seventy-seven high-risk criminal operatives were sent to the United States.
  • Why were these individuals transferred? To curb violence generated by their activities originating from within Mexico.
  • How many criminals have been transferred under the current administration? Ninety-two high-impact criminals have been transferred to the U.S. so far.
  • What was the purpose of the transfer? To ensure these individuals no longer pose a threat to Mexico’s security and continue their criminal activities from U.S. soil.