The U.S. government has initiated measures to counteract the activities of a human smuggling and drug trafficking group based in Sonora, Mexico, operating on the southwest border. This initiative is also supported by the Mexican government.
According to a press release from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Malas Mañas transnational criminal organization (TCO) generates profit from smuggling contraband into the U.S., including human trafficking that undermines the U.S. asylum system. In addition, TCO is infamous for attempting to import methamphetamine and fentanyl into America, posing a threat to the national security of both Mexico and the U.S.
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas stated, "The Department of Homeland Security continues to relentlessly pursue transnational criminal organizations. Through whole-of-government efforts targeting cartels and smugglers like Malas Mañas, we are disrupting the illicit financial networks of criminals who profit off vulnerable migrants and devastate our communities with fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics." He further added that "Today’s announcement showcases the work of Homeland Security Investigations, alongside our partners at the Drug Enforcement Administration and Treasury Department, in safeguarding our nation and holding those who benefit from crime accountable."
DHS investigators have worked in conjunction with the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control to sanction key individuals within Mañas TCO whose operations have incited violence and corruption within Mexico. These operations generate revenue that the cartel uses to expand its distribution network.
Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen said during her recent visit to Mexico City, "I shared treasury’s commitment to working together with the Government of Mexico to target illicit finances of criminal organizations that undermine security and prosperity in both our countries." She further emphasized that "As part of Biden-Harris Administration’s effort to target human smugglers and drug traffickers operating on U.S. southwestern border, we are imposing sanctions today to target Mala Mañas or like-minded organizations that exploit migrants and abuse the U.S. financial system."
