Background on Key Individuals and Relevance
Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán is a notorious Mexican drug lord and former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel. His family members have been entangled in his criminal activities, and some are now under scrutiny following reports of their voluntary surrender to U.S. authorities.
Ovidio Guzmán López, also known as “El Ratón” (The Mouse), is one of El Chapo’s sons and a key figure in this situation. He was arrested in the United States and reportedly reached an agreement with the FBI to collaborate on narcotics-related charges in exchange for a reduced sentence.
The Surrender of at Least 17 Family Members
According to journalist Luis Chaparro from Píe de Nota, at least 17 relatives of El Chapo Guzmán voluntarily surrendered to U.S. authorities on May 9 at the Tijuana-San Diego border crossing.
- These family members reportedly carried around $70,000 in cash, luggage, and a temporary stay permit for the U.S.
- Among those surrendered are Ovidio Guzmán’s mother and one of El Chapo’s ex-wives, Griselda López Pérez.
- Other relatives include a daughter, nephews, a grandson, and a son-in-law of the former criminal leader.
These individuals are currently under the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Mexico Seeks Clarification from the U.S.
During her daily press conference, Mexico City’s mayor Claudia Sheinbaum called for clarification from the U.S. government regarding the reported surrender of El Chapo Guzmán’s family members.
“I inquired this morning after seeing the news; there is no additional information beyond what has been reported,” Sheinbaum said.
She emphasized that Ovidio Guzmán was extradited by Mexico during President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration, and the U.S. government should inform Mexican authorities since they have ongoing investigative files.
“I understand that the attorney general will provide updates once they have more information,” Sheinbaum added.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the key individuals involved? Ovidio Guzmán López (El Ratón), son of El Chapo Guzmán; El Chapo Guzmán, former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel; Claudia Sheinbaum, Mayor of Mexico City.
- What is the reported incident? At least 17 relatives of El Chapo Guzmán allegedly surrendered to U.S. authorities voluntarily.
- Why is Mexico seeking clarification? To ensure proper communication between the two governments regarding ongoing investigations into El Chapo Guzmán’s criminal network.
- What is Ovidio Guzmán’s agreement with the FBI? He reportedly reached a collaborative agreement on narcotics-related charges to potentially reduce his sentence.
