US Ambassador Confirms Drug Lord El Mayo's Reluctant Extradition

The US ambassador to Mexico confirmed that Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada was brought to the US against his will in July. Zambada and Joaquín Guzmán López were arrested and jailed for various drug crimes. US Ambassador Ken Salazar clarified that no U.S. resources were involved in the extradition.

The US ambassador to Mexico has confirmed that Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a senior figure in the Sinaloa cartel, was brought to the United States against his will. Arriving in Texas alongside fellow drug lord Joaquín Guzmán López in July, Zambada is now in U.S. custody.

Earlier claims by Zambada's attorney that the drug kingpin had been kidnapped were not confirmed until Friday. US Ambassador Ken Salazar clarified that Zambada did not turn himself in, as had been speculated due to his age and health condition. Salazar stated that no U.S. personnel, resources, or aircraft were involved in the operation.

Joaquín Guzmán López, son of infamous cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, turned himself in upon arrival at an airport near El Paso on July 25. Both men now face various drug charges and remain jailed in the United States.